HEAD OF STATE URGES FIJI BUSINESSES TO REMAIN COMPETITIVE, ADAPT TO THE GLOBAL AND EMBRACE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION 

09/11/2024

“It is essential to recognise the global trends influencing productivity and business excellence in 2024. Technological advancements like automation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are reshaping industries globally; Fiji is no exception. These innovations offer significant opportunities for Fijian businesses to optimise operations, improve accuracy, and make data-driven decisions that anticipate future challenges.”

This was highlighted by the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, while speaking at the 25th Fiji Business Excellence Awards (FBEA) Gala held in Nadi this evening.

President Katonivere challenged Fijian businesses to remain competitive and adapt to the global market, embracing digital transformation is essential.

“To all the organisations recognised tonight, congratulations! Being recognised by the Fiji Business Excellence Awards validates your values. May your success inspire others to find solutions to challenges, adapt, and aim higher.”

President Katonivere commended the Fiji Business Excellence Award (FBEA) Panel of Review and the Secretariat for their dedication and commitment to upholding the FBEA's relevance and inspiring more organisations to pursue excellence. 

At its foundation, the Business Excellence framework provides a roadmap for sustainable performance and resilience, equipping organisations to face future economic challenges.

“Earlier this year, following this comprehensive review, the FBEA Secretariat introduced new products and services. NTPC, as the home of NPO Fiji, stands ready to evolve as a Centre of Excellence in Business Excellence, committed to facilitating best practices and advancing Business Excellence frameworks among leading Fijian enterprises.

“The NPO is actively engaged in setting up Model Organisations focused on innovation, sustainability, transformation, productivity, and quality, creating important benchmarks for Fijian organisations.”

“This platform provides a roadmap for organisations to achieve viable performances and build resilience. We look forward to the support of Business Excellence organisations and industry partners in this continued journey.”

President Katonivere added that the impact on organisations has strengthened their leadership, improved workforce morale, and deepened customer relationships. 

These achievements not only benefit individual businesses but contribute significantly to the national economy.

“The Fiji National Productivity Master Plan 2021–2036 underscores that productivity is essential for raising living standards in Fiji, enabling citizens to afford goods and services. Organisations involved in the FBEA process support this national vision, aligning their growth with Fiji’s broader economic objectives.”

The Fiji Business Excellence Awards has recognised 136 organisations and presented 305 awards over the past 24 years. This achievement symbolises the commitment and hard work of Fijian organisations across all sectors.