Local businesses key to Fiji’s growth: Finance Minister

While foreign investment is important, Fiji’s future will be built by Fijians, says Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development Esrom Immanuel.

Mr Immanuel made the remarks during the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Christmas Gala Dinner at the Grand Melanesian Hotel in Nadi last Friday night.

He said Fiji’s entrepreneurs, manufacturers, farmers, hoteliers and service providers were the foundation of the nation’s economic strength.

“Your success strengthens local supply chains, sustains communities, creates jobs and drives long-term prosperity,” he said.

“We will champion your success. We will support local businesses with targeted incentives, smarter policies and practical tools that help you grow, expand and innovate.”

Mr Immanuel said growth required more than goodwill and called for bold shifts in productivity, technology and skills.

“Government is actively exploring targeted reforms that are practical, business-driven and aligned with global competitiveness.

“We must embrace advanced technologies. We must invest in modern training. We must address skill shortages before they become economic constraints, and we must support industries that are ready to transform our national landscape,” he said.

He said micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) would be protected, supported and empowered.

“MSMEs are often the first to create jobs, the first to innovate and the first to energise local economies,” he said.

Mr Immanuel said the ministry would soon launch the MSME Strategic Plan and MSME Database to strengthen support for MSMEs, enhance data-driven decision-making and drive sustainable growth across the sector, with the goal of achieving a 40 per cent contribution to gross domestic product by 2030.

“We must send a bold message to the world: Fiji welcomes investment. But more importantly, we must send a louder message to our own people: Your ideas matter. Your businesses matter. Your ambitions matter. Fiji’s economy is ready for you,” he said.

Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Lawrence Kumar said Nadi was not merely a gateway for global visitors but a gateway for ambition.