Labour migration has become one of the defining features of Fiji’s economy, generating record remittance inflows while creating significant workforce shortages, Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu says.
Speaking during the 2026-2027 National Budget debate in Parliament on Monday, Mr Seruiratu said more Fijians were taking up employment opportunities in Australia and New Zealand through seasonal worker programs, bilateral labour agreements and direct recruitment into sectors including agriculture, healthcare, education, construction and hospitality.
He said remittances from overseas workers were projected to reach $1.5billion next year, providing valuable foreign exchange, supporting household spending and helping cushion the economy during periods of uncertainty.
Mr Seruiratu called on the Government to develop a comprehensive national diaspora policy to strengthen engagement with Fijians living abroad, encourage investment, facilitate skills and knowledge transfer, and create opportunities for those wishing to return home.
However, he warned that continued labour migration was placing increasing pressure on the domestic workforce.
He said businesses were struggling to recruit skilled employees, while public institutions faced difficulties maintaining essential services because of the loss of experienced personnel.
He cited shortages of radiologists and technicians at Korovou and Levuka hospitals as examples.
Mr Seruiratu said the challenge was not preventing Fijians from working overseas, but making Fiji a more attractive place to live and work through better wages, affordable housing, quality healthcare, education and improved living standards.
