Fiji has successfully negotiated a significant reduction in US tariffs on its exports.
Effective August 8, Fijian-origin exports will be reduced from 32 per cent to 15 per cent.
This was confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, MSMEs and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica saying the outcome followed what he described as “constructive and principled engagement” between the Fijian Government and the Office of the United States Trade Representative.
“This is a strong signal that early and principled engagement works,” Mr Kamikamica said.
“We made our case clearly, and the US has responded positively.”
The reduced tariff applies broadly to Fijian goods, except where excluded under specific provisions.
Mr Kamikamica said expectations were that costs would be eased for exporters and the competitiveness of Fijian products in the US market would be also improved.
Fiji is now officially recognised as a country in active trade negotiations with the US as outlined in an Executive Order issued on August 1, 2025.
“The new 15 per cent rate is a milestone, not a conclusion.
“We remain committed to advancing these discussions in good faith.
“Our ultimate goal is to significantly reduce the 15 per cent tariff and explore all available avenues to ensure improved and sustained market access for Fijian exports.”
Fiji’s argument to the US was based on economic reasoning and data.
The country accounts for less than 0.0001 per cent of total US imports, posing no threat to domestic industry.
Fijian exports were generally small-scaled, niche, seasonal, and complementary to US production.
Meanwhile, the average tariff Fiji applied to US goods stood at approximately 1.8 per cent, with over 60 per cent of tariff lines already set at zero.
Mr Kamikamica said technical discussions were continuing with the US on a proposed “Zero List,” a category of Fijian exports not produced in the US and potentially eligible for duty-free access.
