The Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications officially launched the Fiji Trade Information Portal (TIP) today, a landmark national initiative designed to centralise all trade-related information to ensure greater transparency, accessibility, and predictability in trade.
The TIP was officially launched by the Permanent Secretary for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Mr. Shaheen Ali. The launch featured remarks by the Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, H.E. Peter Roberts, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation, Mr. Edward Bernard.
The event brought together senior government officials, private sector representatives, and technical experts from the World Bank Group, development partners and diplomatic missions, supporting the implementation of the Portal.
In his address, PS Ali described the Trade Information Portal as “a powerful tool — an enabler of economic participation and a step towards modernising the way we do trade in Fiji.” He explained that the Portal is a one-stop online platform that provides up-to-date, accurate, and easy-to-understand information on trade procedures, permits, licenses, fees, and regulations.
“Let’s be honest, trade procedures in Fiji have not always been simple,” Mr. Ali acknowledged.
“For too long, our traders, especially MSMEs, have spent too much time chasing approvals and trying to understand complex rules. The TIP changes that—it puts clear, verified trade information at your fingertips, free of charge.”
The Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, H.E. Peter Roberts, emphasised that the Trade Information Portal marks a significant step toward enhancing transparency. H.E. Peter Roberts said, “Australia has supported this initiative through the World Bank’s Trade Facilitation Support Programme, recognising its vital role in boosting Fiji’s integration into the global economy. We are proud to be part of this important step forward.”
High Commissioner Roberts, reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting Fiji’s trade and economic growth, while Mr. Bernard emphasised the importance of digital solutions like the TIP in easing the burden on local businesses.
The TIP is part of a broader trade facilitation agenda by the Fijian Government, which includes the planned implementation of a National Single Window System — a digital platform that will enable traders to complete all import/export transactions online through a unified interface.
“Today we celebrate TIP — but this is only the beginning,” said Mr. Ali.
“This Portal sets the foundation for a fully integrated trade facilitation ecosystem that meets international best practices and supports our compliance with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.”
Mr. Ali also extended his appreciation to the World Bank Group, the Australian Government, and all government and private sector partners for their contribution to the success of the project.
The Fiji Trade Information Portal is now live and accessible at www.fijitradeportal.gov.fj