The Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development, Esrom Immanuel has highlighted the ongoing challenge of skilled worker migration, revealing that Fiji has lost around 100,000 people to overseas opportunities in recent years.
Speaking at the Fiji Human Resources Institute Annual Convention 2026 held at Sofitel in Nadi, the Minister says this trend has created significant strain across both the public and private sectors, with some institutions operating at reduced capacity.
Immanuel stresses that retaining skilled workers requires more than competitive salaries.
He urged HR professionals to focus on creating supportive and fulfilling work environments, where job satisfaction, feeling valued and respect are prioritised.
He also called for innovation in workplace practices, including flexible working arrangements and productivity measured by results rather than hours spent in the office.
Despite these challenges, the Minister says Fiji’s economic outlook remains positive, with projected medium-term growth of around three percent and increasing job opportunities across key sectors.
He says the Government cannot achieve this transformation alone and they need the private sector, institutions and HR professionals to play their part.
Immanuel is urging HR practitioners to lead efforts in building a resilient, skilled, and motivated workforce.
