Our dependence on international trade is not merely a choice but is a necessity shaped by the unique geographic, demographic, and economic factors that characterise Fiji.
This was the statement made by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications Manoa Kamikamica while officiating at the Fourth Trade Policy Review at the World Trade Organisation in Geneva, Switzerland.
He says with a relatively small yet vibrant domestic market, we understand that our pathway to progress, lies in our ability to embrace global connections, harnessing the potential of international trade and supply chains to fuel our economy and uplift the livelihoods of our people.
Kamikamica says Fiji looks forward to engaging with all the WTO members in the spirit of cooperation, with the hope that this review will be an opportunity to strengthen Fiji’s trade and economic policy and in the process create a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous global trading environment for all.
He says Fiji acknowledges the critical role of the WTO in facilitating a rules-based, transparent and equitable global trading system.
He adds as we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, the WTO remains instrumental in ensuring that all nations, regardless of size, can participate in international trade on fair and just terms and this is why there is a need for a strong rules-based multilateral trading system.
Kamikamica also stated that trade has long been the lifeblood of Fiji's economic growth and development, ingrained deeply within the fabric of our society.
He says it is through trade that we expand horizons, open new opportunities, and foster innovation.
