Fiji remains committed to the principles of fair and open trade, “and we will continue to work closely with our global partners through the World Trade Organisation to strengthen our trade policies for the benefit of Fiji and our people”.
This was said by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica in Parliament on Wednesday.
He said the Government actively participated in the 4th Review of Fiji’s Trade Policy at the WTO.
Mr Kamikamica said this review process “played a pivotal role in enabling us to thoroughly assess the impact of our trade policies, engage in constructive dialogues with our trading partners, and deliberate on the necessary adjustments to enhance our trade strategy further”.
“The frequency of these reviews varies according to a country’s size, and for Fiji, our trade policies undergo a review every six years at the WTO.
“The Trade Policy Review process involves two essential documents – a policy statement by the Government under review and a detailed, independent report authored by the WTO secretariat.”
He said trade had long been the lifeblood of Fiji’s development, deeply ingrained in the very fabric of our society.
“It is through trade that we have expanded our horizons, opened new opportunities, and fostered innovation. Our journey toward economic progress has been fundamentally linked to our ability to connect with the world and showcase the richness of our culture and products.
“The WTO plays a critical role in this endeavour, providing a platform for a rules-based, transparent and equitable global trading system.”
Mr Kamikamica said as a small island nation, Fiji acknowledged the vital importance of the WTO in ensuring all nations, regardless of their size, can participate in international trade on fair and just terms.
