Women around the country drive market reforms

Women market vendors across Fiji are now organised into Market Vendor Associations (MVAs) on Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, and the maritime islands, creating stronger representation and leadership for women in the marketplace.

This was highlighted by the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran during the Marriott Hotel’s 11th annual ‘Road to Give’ event at the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club in Nadi last Saturday.

Ms Kiran commended UN Women’s Markets for Change Programme for its role in transforming local markets into safer, more inclusive spaces.

“Today, we have seen the transformation of marketplaces into places of safety, dignity, and opportunity for women vendors throughout Fiji,” she said.

She said women are now directly involved in consultations with municipal councils on market operations and infrastructure design, ensuring facilities reflect their real needs for accessibility, safety, hygiene, and space.

Vendors of Namaka and Nadi Markets.

Photo: Supplied

Ms Kiran shared that as of mid-2025, there were 6,857 registered market vendors across 12 markets, nearly 70 per cent of whom are women. Of the 2060 MVA members, 80 per cent are women, with 60 per cent of associations now women-led.

“These figures show women stepping into leadership roles and shaping their own economic futures,” she said.

She also revealed that Fiji currently has 28,570 active registered women taxpayers in the micro-entrepreneur category, earning up to $50,000 annually; 3110 small women entrepreneurs earning between $50,000 and $300,000; and 357 medium-scale women entrepreneurs with turnovers up to $1.25 million.

The Ba Province leads women-owned SMEs with $21 million in revenue, followed by Rewa with $20 million.

Ms Kiran said the Women’s Economic Empowerment National Action Plan (2025–2030), to be launched today at the Ba Women’s Forum, aims to ensure all women — regardless of age, location, or ability — have access to opportunities and recognition in the economy.

She added that her ministry continues to deliver financial literacy and entrepreneurship training in partnership with JICA, Business Assistance Fiji, UNDP, and other organisations to help rural women manage businesses and finances effectively.

Ms Kiran acknowledged the leadership of Marriott Hotel’s Neeraj Chadha and general manager Silvano Dressino, praising their support for community-driven initiatives through the Road to Give partnership.

“Their commitment to corporate giving serves as a role model for others and shows how strong leadership can contribute to nation-building,” she said.