There is an urgent need for business to lift Fiji’s economy in order to create more employment opportunities and improve the lives of all Fijians from its present state.

Al Hamd Smart Living managing director Ashfaaq Khan on the same breath has called on all businesses to go beyond the boundaries.

“This time, more than ever, ordinary Fijians are looking up to us to improve their lives and if we continue to stay in this present mood then thing will never improve.”

Expansion plan

Mr Khan has backed his call up by plans to open a fifth outlet of his company in Lautoka within the next few weeks.

He was in the sugar city on Wednesday looking at the premises where he will set up business.

“All business must remember that Fiji’s economic performance is based largely on how we perform and act in decisive moments, like now.

“Our Prime Minister has given us an indication that Fiji plans to open up at the end of October and we need to start lifting our game towards that goal.”

Fiji’s growth

Mr Khan said while some businesses are struggling, others are coping to some extent and this is where this drive should come from.

He said businesses hold the key to Fiji’s growth and the opportunities for young Fijians in the future.

“If we don’t provide that opportunity for them now then will not want to know what the future will hold for them.

“Government is doing all it can to keep ordinary Fijians heads up with cash grants to them.

“We need to play our part because like it or not we are all in this together as one nation.

“The challenge for all businesses in Fiji is now more urgent than ever.”

“For other entrepreneurs and myself, it’s our responsibility to see that our employees have food on the table.

“Business should think many times before losing the battle within their mind. It is through dedicated employees that a company grows.

“Now it’s the other way around where business owners needs to grow their workers with innovative ideas and ways. “

Business forecasts

Mr Khan said like every hardship there are good and bad days ahead.

He said every country around the world saw their growth forecasts revised downward and most into negative territory since the onset of COVID-19 last year.

“If some businesses continue to gloat over this pandemic rather than try new innovations and ways to improve their business, then this downward spiral trend will continue.

“So I am asking all business in Fiji – let’s band together and get our heads together and rally in unison to help our beloved country,” Mr Khan said..

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