Expo opens new pathways for Northern entrepreneurs

Northern entrepreneurs were encouraged to build new partnerships and seize business opportunities during the Business Assistance Fiji (BAF) and Business Link Pacific (BLP) MSME Networking Expo at the Labasa Civic Centre last Friday.

New Zealand High Commissioner Greg Andrews said micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) made up about 90 per cent of businesses worldwide, generated employment and contributed around 50 per cent of global gross domestic product (GDP).

"Today we have a great opportunity and a great chance to build new relationships," Mr Andrews said.

He praised local entrepreneurs and said the expo would create valuable opportunities for businesses to grow.

Assistant Minister for Commerce and Business Development Sachida Nand said the expo reflected the strength of entrepreneurship in the Northern Division.

He said this was evident in businesses ranging from farmers in Seaqaqa and tourism operators in Savusavu to digital entrepreneurs building online services.

"MSMEs are building a more inclusive and resilient Fiji," Mr Nand said.

He said Vanua Levu continued to offer strong opportunities in agriculture, fisheries, tourism, manufacturing and renewable energy.

"Our Northern Division continues to prove that distance is not a barrier to business growth," he said.

Mr Nand said bringing the expo to Labasa ensured entrepreneurs in the North could access Government agencies, business advisory services and financial institutions without having to travel to Viti Levu.

"By bringing this expo to the North, we have removed a significant geographic barrier and ensured that Northern entrepreneurs can access Government agencies, business advisory services and financial institutions right here at home," he said.