Fiji Airports wins international recognition for procurement reforms

A major procurement overhaul at Fiji Airports is helping pave the way for the delivery of a $2.3 billion infrastructure programme, with the organisation receiving international recognition for the transformation.

Fiji Airports received a Highly Commended award at the 2026 Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) ANZ Excellence Awards, becoming the first organisation from Fiji to receive recognition at the CIPS Awards.

The award was presented at the 2026 CIPS ANZ Excellence in Procurement and Supply Awards, where Fiji Airports competed against entries from Australia and New Zealand.

The procurement reform programme has reshaped how Fiji Airports manages contracts, tenders and supplier engagement as it prepares for significant infrastructure expansion and technological modernisation.

Under the new procurement framework, 118 tenders have been processed and 11 audit findings have been closed.

The transformation has introduced stronger governance measures, improved transparency and increased audit readiness across the organisation.

Fiji Airports chief executive officer Mesake Nawari said procurement now played a critical role in achieving the organisation’s strategic objectives.

“This is a proud and historic achievement for Fiji Airports and for our nation. Becoming the first organisation from Fiji to receive a CIPS award demonstrates that our commitment to governance, transparency, fairness and sustainability is being recognised internationally,” Mr Nawari said.

He said the transformation had fundamentally changed the way procurement supported the organisation’s strategic direction.

“Procurement is a strategic function that enables us to deliver world-class infrastructure, strengthen operational performance, manage risk and create long-term value for our stakeholders.

“This Highly Commended recognition validates the dedication of our procurement team and the collective commitment of our Board, Executive Leadership Team and staff to embedding international best practice across Fiji Airports.

“Fiji Airports continues to punch above its weight,” Mr Nawari said.

CIPS judges described the transformation as an “admirable and contextually significant achievement” and praised the governance improvements achieved.

Mr Nawari said the award reinforced the importance of procurement in supporting major national infrastructure investments.

Fiji Airports said the reforms were designed to improve accountability and operational efficiency while ensuring procurement decisions support long-term growth and development goals.

The procurement changes come as the organisation prepares to undertake one of the country’s biggest infrastructure investment programmes.