Source: MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
Trade is the engine of growth, especially for a small Island developing economy like Fiji- increased trade leads to job creation, development of new industries, improved standards of living and alleviation of poverty, says Ministry of Industry and Trade permanent secretary Shaheen Ali.
Mr Ali made the comment as he opened the EXPORT AWARENESS SEMINAR organised by Investment Fiji on Mondayy.
The seminar’s theme “Better Trade Facilitation & Economic Growth” supports the initiative of providing a platform for dialogue and better understanding of policies and implementation for both trade facilitation (market access) and growth
Mr Ali highlighted that because of the successful reforms by the Bainimarama Government, the Fijian economy is on a positive trajectory.
“We have successful absorbed the Global Financial Crisis, Food/Fuel Crisis, and floods last year. Our economy is expected to grow by 3.2 per cent in 2013 and 2.5 per cent in 2014. The positive and stable growth has led to consumer confidence resulting in increased demand for imports and an increasing trade deficit, contributing to Fiji’s current account deficit,” he said.
Mr Ali reiterated government’s efforts to reduce the trade deficit through numerous reforms and measures and in order to gain success the support from all sectors is needed only through a structured and inclusive process.
Full details in Tuesday’s Fiji Sun newspaper.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry & Trade Mr. Shaheen Ali with Mr. Ravuni Uluilakeba CEO Investment Fiji during the Export Awareness Seminar