Fiji exported a total of $1.85 billion worth of goods in 2021 which was an increase of 3.2% from $1.79 billion when compared to the year 2020.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport Faiyaz Koya who says trade in several products, such as fuel, aircraft, cars, and machines dropped in 2020 and 2021, while trading goods such as medical protective equipment and pharmaceutical products, home appliances and electronics increased.
He says domestic exports has shown an increase of 10% compared to 2020 and 7% compared to 2019 which is a pre-pandemic period.
Koya says some of the products exported in 2021 actually increased compared to 2019 and 2020.
He says turmeric increased by 254% compared to 2019 and 62% compared to 2020, spices also increased by 175% compared to 2019 and 45% in 2020 while insulated wires, cables, and other insulated electrical conductors increased by 68.4% compared to 2020.
The Minister adds potato chips and other assorted snacks increased by 42% compared to 2020, mineral water increased by 40.2% compared to 2020 and 7% in 2019 and wood chips increased by 35% compared to 2020 and 99% in 2019.
Koya says molasses increased by 29.8% compared to 2020 and 86% in 2019, kava increased by 29% compared to 2019, whilst there was a 4% decline compared to 2020.
He further says uncooked pasta and noodles also increased by 27.4% compared to 2020, taro increased by 12.3% compared to 2020 and 21% compared to 2019 while sweet biscuits increased by 1.9% compared to 2020 and 8% compared to 2019.
The Minister for Trade says they are capitalizing on these particular growing areas by deepening their presence in the existing markets and continuously exploring opportunities for newer markets.
Koya highlighted that Fiji’s exports are currently tracking well and are contributing to Fiji’s economic diversification which was at the forefront of plans as can be seen with agro-commodities and our economic recovery.
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