The Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Communications is pleased to announce that the European Union (EU) has officially activated the Global Sourcing derogation allowing processed fishery products from Fiji to benefit from preferential access under the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA).
This milestone decision follows a formal request submitted by the Fiji Government to the EU in April 2025, supported by extensive technical documentation and consultations with the fisheries industry and relevant stakeholders.
The EU published a notice (C/2025/4197) on 30 July 2025 in the Official Journal of the European Union, confirming that, effective 31 July 2025, processed fishery products under headings 1604 and 1605—manufactured in on-land premises in Fiji from non-originating raw materials landed in Fijian ports—will be considered as originating products under the IEPA.
The global sourcing derogation allows Fiji to source raw fish from a wider range of foreign-flagged vessels. Once processed in Fiji, these value-added fish products can be exported to the EU duty-free.
This development significantly expands Fiji’s export opportunities to the EU market and is expected to benefit local processors, create jobs, and drive growth in the fisheries and manufacturing sectors. It also positions Fiji as a competitive regional hub for value-added seafood production.
Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, MSMEs and Communications, welcomed the decision and stated that “This is a significant achievement for Fiji and a timely opportunity for our fish processing sector. The approval of global sourcing by the EU is a direct result of the Fiji Government’s strategic efforts to diversify our exports and strengthen access to high-value markets.”
“It opens new avenues for investment, employment, and sustainable growth in our fisheries and manufacturing sectors. We remain committed to creating an enabling trade environment that delivers real benefits to our people and positions Fiji as a competitive player in global trade”, said DPM Kamikamica.
The Permanent Secretary for Trade, Co-operatives, MSMEs and Communications, Mr Shaheen Ali, stated that whilst Fiji welcomes the approval of global sourcing for processed fish, the Ministry will continue to engage with the European Union through the IEPA Trade Committee to explore the possibility of extending this arrangement to fresh and frozen fish, in which Fiji has significant market opportunity.
“This approval is a step in the right direction. While we understand the EU’s current position on global sourcing for fresh and frozen fish, Fiji remains hopeful and committed to constructive engagement. We believe that a future extension would bring mutual benefits and further strengthen our fisheries partnership under the IEPA,” said Permanent Secretary Ali.
Fiji remains committed to sustainable fisheries management, full compliance with international standards, and leveraging trade to create inclusive economic opportunities for Fijians.
This development marks the enduring trade and economic partnership between Fiji and the EU, one built on mutual commitment to sustainable development, inclusive growth, and deeper market integration.