Last year, Fiji exported FJ$249 million worth of merchandise to Australia, 13 per cent more than what was achieved in 2020.

This was highlighted by Minister for Commerce, Trade and Tourism Faiyaz Koya during the investment and trade mission opening in Australia yesterday.

Thirty business leaders is participating in the week long event where they will present the vast opportunities and incentives Fiji offers in various sectors.

“Fiji shares extensive trade and investment ties with Australia and remains one of the largest trade and investment partners, with two-way goods and services,” Mr Koya said.

He added in 2021, there were 34 Australian projects in Fiji valued at FJ$26.4 million in tourism, real estate, services, transport, storage, communication, and construction sectors.

“The possibility of stronger engagement between our two nations has grown over the last period of years, and this business mission confirms that we are going to see sustainably more integration going forward while also signifying the strong foundation of our relationship and shared vision to further our economic relations.”

To top this up, the new investment act announced in the 2022-2023 National Budget means investing in Fiji has become easier than before.

Mr Koya said effective from Au- gust 1, foreign investors would no longer require a foreign investment registration certificate.

“All you need to do is legally register your business with the Registrar of Companies, in line with the Companies Act 2015 and register for a tax number.”

This can be done online through bizfiji.com.

“When you invest in Fiji, there are times when you need specialised skills and experience,” he said.
“In this regard, we have the Registration of Skilled Professionals Act, which provides a fast track process for (1) permit to work and reside in Fiji and (2) registration with relevant professional bodies.”

Applications are assessed by the Skilled Professionals Evaluation Committee and processed within 28 days.

Investors can also contact the Trade Commissioner or the Ministry website for more information.

The 2022-2023 National Budget is focused on the exceptional economic recovery that Fiji has achieved, he says.

A new business visa category was also announced in the budget.

Effective from August 1, there is a 21 days business visa on arrival for citizens of a few selected counties including Australia and New Zealand.

“Our national investment and trade agency, Investment Fiji, will provide policy advocacy and after care services, allowing investors to adjust to the investment environment,” Mr Koya said.

Meanwhile, Mr Koya acknowledged the Australia Fiji Business Council and the New South Wales Fiji Business Council for their role in leveraging trade and economic opportunities for Fiji.

The delegation to the trade mis- sion is led by Minister Koya, Investment Fiji Chair Jenny Seeto, Chief Executive Kamal Chetty, Reserve Bank of Fiji Deputy Governor Esala Masitabua and Fiji Revenue and Customs Services Chief Executive Mark Dixon.

“I hope this business mission will allow us to further explore numerous avenues to deepen strong economic relations and encourage greater engagement between both nations,” Mr Koya said.

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