Permanent Secretary for Industrya nd Trade, Shaheen Ali.
By RACHNA LAL
As works towards a Trade Policy Framework continues, it has been stressed this would help Fiji analayse all policies that will impact businesses here before Government adopts them.
The Permanent Secretary for Industry and Trade, Shaheen Ali, made these comments as the ministry prepares to convene a national workshop on September 13 and 14.
“For example, when Government reviews its import tariff structure, the multi-stakeholder committee will analyse the implications of any new policies,” he said.
“This can be in terms of revenue and impact on businesses, jobs and on the broader community and provide its recommendations to the Minister for Industry and Trade.”
The workshop would provide an opportunity for Fijian stakeholders to discuss and give their views on Fiji’s first Trade Policy Framework.
Mr Ali said: “The meeting will bring all the relevant stakeholders to identify Fiji’s trade challenges, opportunities and priorities and develop a comprehensive Trade Policy Framework.
“This would be on how to ‘connect all the dots’ and address all the production, and supply-side constraints.”
Rightful place as hub
Mr Ali said this will be done with the ultimate objective of enhancing Fiji’s competitiveness in international trade and maximising the development benefits for the people of Fiji.
“The Trade Policy Framework will help confirm Fiji’s rightful place as the trade hub of the Pacific,” he said.
“It will utilise trade as a powerful tool to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth and development.”
Government’s commitment
Mr Ali said the workshop is indicative of the Bainimarama Government’s commitment in ensuring that an inclusive and practical Trade Policy Framework is put in place.
“This will form the blue print for Fiji on becoming a more competitive and dynamic economy,” he said.