THE Government will embark on a transformative $1.5billion redevelopment of Suva Port as part of an ambitious plan to position Fiji as the Pacific’s leading regional trans-shipment hub and lift economic growth beyond five per cent.
Presenting the 2026-2027 National Budget yesterday, Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel said expanding the country’s port infrastructure was critical to unlocking Fiji’s long-term economic potential.
“To lift our growth to over 5 per cent, we need to invest in a modern port facility that not only serves Fiji’s trade and logistical requirements but serve as a regional trans-shipment facility given our hub status in the Pacific,” Mr Immanuel said.
“Our current Suva Port is reaching its capacity and for future economic expansion and growth we need to expand our port capacity, improve operational efficiency, enhance competitiveness and capitalise on unrealised trans-shipment opportunities in the region.”
He announced that the Government had begun work on a major redevelopment program that would transform Suva into a modern international port facility.
“Government is embarking on a major transformational port expansion and redevelopment project to develop the Suva Port into a modern port facility.”
Mr Immanuel said the project would receive significant international backing, with the United States’ Millennium Challenge Corporation working alongside the Government to provide major grant funding.
He added that the Government of Australia, the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific and other multilateral institutions were also prepared to contribute financing, while private sector investment — including participation by the Fiji National Provident Fund and other institutional investors—would form part of the funding package.
“The full project cost will be over $1.5b and will be implemented over a period of five years.
“Plans are also underway for further investments and expansion at the Lautoka Port including investment in shipbuilding and maintenance to serve Fiji and the region.”
