Fiji, US sign deal to unlock new growth and investment

Fiji and the United States have signed a key agreement aimed at driving private sector-led growth and strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

The Compact Development Funding Agreement was signed last Saturday by U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Fiji’s Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development, Esrom Immanuel.

The agreement enables joint technical work to design projects that will enhance Fiji’s economy while creating new opportunities for U.S. trade and investment.

“This is more than an agreement—it’s a catalyst for prosperity. By working with Fiji, we aim to design a compact that drives investment in Fiji, opens new markets for American companies, and strengthens the foundation for a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Deputy Secretary Landau said.

Minister Immanuel said the agreement underscored Fiji’s reform momentum and commitment to sound governance.

“This agreement reflects Fiji’s commitment to good governance, economic freedom, and investments that foster growth,” he said.

“Together, we will tackle key development challenges and create lasting benefits for Fijians.”

Fiji was selected by the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Board in August 2025 to develop a compact programme, recognising the country’s reform progress and its role as a regional hub for transport, business, healthcare and workforce development.

MCC compacts are five-year agreements that fund programmes targeting key barriers to economic growth. The newly signed agreement initiates a data-driven design process to identify priority sectors and develop projects that support Fiji’s long-term development and shared interests in the Pacific.

The MCC continues to expand its footprint in the region, with ongoing or developing programmes in Solomon Islands, Kiribati and Tonga. To date, the agency has committed nearly US$115 million to support Pacific Island nations in addressing economic challenges and strengthening links to global markets and U.S. businesses.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation is an independent U.S. Government agency that provides results-driven foreign assistance, supporting large-scale infrastructure, strategic reforms and economic modernisation.