Fiji is strengthening its presence in global trade discussions while advancing Pacific priorities through increased engagement with international and regional trade partners, according to Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Sakiasi Ditoka.
Speaking in Parliament, Ditoka said Fiji participated in the 14th World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference in Cameroon, where the country promoted priorities related to fisheries subsidies, agriculture, e-commerce, WTO reform and dispute settlement.
The minister said Fiji also hosted the 11th European Union-Pacific Interim Economic Partnership Agreement Trade Committee Meeting in Suva, alongside a Global Sourcing Workshop conducted with the European Union to support value-added opportunities in the fisheries sector.
Ditoka said Fiji’s growing role in regional and international trade discussions has been reflected through invitations from both Australia and New Zealand to participate in their respective Trade Ministers’ meetings.
He said the invitations underscored the strength of Fiji’s relationships with key partners and growing recognition of the country’s voice within regional and global trade forums.
According to Ditoka, Fiji’s expanding trade engagement supports the country’s ambition to position itself as a regional trade, logistics and distribution hub.
He said the engagements are expected to create new opportunities for investment, trade and long-term economic growth while strengthening Fiji’s role in advancing Pacific trade interests internationally.
