The success rate of the National Export Strategy (NES) programme has surged from 55% in the 2022/2023 financial year to 85% in 2023/2024.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Micro and Small Medium Enterprises, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica made these remarks in parliament this week.
"On average, each NES recipient supports at least nine jobs and achieves an annual turnover of $58,000," Minister Kamikamica noted.
"In the last financial year, the Monitoring and Evaluation Team found that 11 of the 13 recipients are highly active, with some even advancing to large business status."
Since its inception, the NES programme has invested over $16 million in 120 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing.
"The National Export Strategy Programme is designed to foster a dynamic export environment, driving sustainable economic growth and ensuring Fijian products succeed in global markets."
DPM Kamikamica emphasized that the programme aims to enhance Fiji’s export capacity and competitiveness, with a strong focus on economic diversification.
"Exports are essential for driving diversification by providing our MSMEs with financial support to access international markets. A diversified export base creates jobs across sectors, increases foreign exchange earnings, and strengthens our overall economic stability."
Through the National Export Strategy, Minister Kamikamica added, the government is laying the foundation for a more vibrant, diverse economy that delivers real benefits for all Fijians.
DPM Kamikamica was responding to questions about how the NES promotes export and economic diversification.