Seventeen budding entrepreneurs, including 13 women, received their business training certificates in a ceremony led by Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs, and Communications, Mr. Shaheen Ali, marking another step forward in Fiji’s effort to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises.
Speaking at the handover event, Mr. Ali emphasised that the training was not a standalone gesture but part of a larger, strategic approach to foster sustainable business development in Fiji.
“Equipping our entrepreneurs with the right knowledge and skills is just as important as providing financial support,” he said, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to comprehensive MSME growth.
Many of the graduates were also recipients of the Ministry’s Trade Enhancement Programme, a grant initiative that provides capital purchases such as tools of trade, sewing machines, or equipment for small businesses.
“This training was designed to ensure that the Government’s investment in your businesses yields meaningful and successful outcomes,” Mr. Ali said.
Over three intensive days, participants underwent the internationally recognized Start and Improve Your Business training. The course covered essential business fundamentals including record keeping, marketing, costing, customer understanding, and cash flow planning. Partner agencies such as the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service and Tower Insurance provided additional insight into taxation and MSME-specific insurance solutions.
Importantly, the Ministry is now preparing to launch a comprehensive MSME Strategic Plan aimed at ending the ad hoc nature of past support. The plan will include a central database, a customer relationship management (CRM) tool, and a continuous monitoring mechanism to track business growth and provide consistent guidance.
“It’s about hand-holding, but with purpose and structure,” said Mr. Ali.
This institutional strengthening marks a shift in how the Fijian government sees MSMEs, not as peripheral players, but as essential contributors to national economic growth.
“Through these policy measures, we are improving our support and ensuring that the MSME sector’s contribution to the economy is real and lasting,” Mr. Ali added.
Mr. Ali closed by congratulating all 17 participants, urging them to apply their new skills with diligence and confidence.
“Today marks a milestone in your journey. Let this be the foundation on which you build lasting success,” he said.