Over 1,000 jobs and $160 million for small business in economic plan - Kamikamica

The Government is taking bold steps to create jobs, support small businesses, reduce poverty, make it easier for ordinary Fijians to start businesses, and make government services closer to the people.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, highlighted that over 1,000 local jobs have already been created through $26 million in new economic activity, with benefits flowing into tourism, transport, and catering sectors.

While supporting the 2025/2026 National Budget, Kamikamica says that small businesses will receive a major boost, with a record $160 million proposed in the new budget which includes the creation of the first-ever national strategy, easier access to funding, and targeted support for women, youth, and rural communities.

Kamikamica highlights that to make business easier, the government has launched a new online platform to register businesses quickly and by the end of the year, 25 digital services will be available across 16 government agencies.

The Deputy Prime Minister says that on the connectivity front, Starlink is expected to reach 124 villages by August, while 5G services are set to roll out soon.

He adds that the government is also working on a national cybersecurity strategy and a digital ID system to protect users online and simplify access to services.

Kamikamica says that with trade talks continuing with the US, the European Union, and Pacific neighbours, the government hopes to open new markets and lower trade barriers for Fijian exporters.