PRIME MINISTER HON. SITIVENI RABUKA'S RESPONSE TO ORAL QUESTION – 192/2025 IN PARLIAMENT

Hon. Ratu Isikeli Tuiwailevu to ask the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Civil Service and Public Enterprises, Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications – Can the Prime Minister inform Parliament on the key outcomes of the Pacific-ACP and Forum Trade Ministers Meeting.
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·      Honorable Speaker Sir,
·      Honorable Ministers and Assistant Ministers,
·      Honorable Leader of Opposition,
·      Honorable Members of Parliament, and
·      Ladies & Gentlemen

Ni sa bula vina’a and a very good morning to you all.

Mister Speaker, I thank the Honourable Member for the question.
 
I rise to inform this august House of the key outcomes of two important meetings that Fiji recently hosted here in Suva – the Pacific-ACP Trade Ministers Meeting and the Forum Trade Ministers Meeting, held on 17 and 18 July 2025.
 
These meetings brought together Trade Ministers, officials, and key stakeholders from across the Pacific region to strategise on the future of trade and sustainable development in our region.
 
Mister Speaker, for context, the Pacific ACP Trade Ministers Meeting is the main forum where Pacific members of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific Group coordinate trade and development priorities with the European Union.
 
The Forum Trade Ministers Meeting is a broader gathering of all Pacific Islands Forum Trade Ministers, focused on advancing our wider trade and investment agenda, in alignment with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific.
 
Mister Speaker, these meetings took place in a time of global uncertainty, with trade tensions, climate shocks, and shifting geopolitical dynamics reshaping the international economy. Yet, these gatherings demonstrated Pacific unity, resolve, and leadership.
 
At the Pacific-ACP Trade Ministers Meeting, Ministers focused on how trade can be a powerful tool for development across our region. Emphasis was placed on supporting our communities, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, to create sustainable economic opportunities and contribute to long-term growth.
 
To advance this agenda, Ministers discussed key initiatives such as the Pacific Trade and Sustainable Development Programme with the European Union, which links trade with development outcomes, and the Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries, and Enterprise (SAFE) Pacific Contribution Agreement, which strengthens sustainable agriculture, fisheries, and trade-related capacity across the region.
 
Mister Speaker, Ministers also reviewed the Regional Kava Development Strategy, aimed at improving quality, consistency, and sustainable growth of kava for farmers and communities, as well as the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Initiative, which builds regional capacity in standards, testing, and certification, ensuring that Pacific products remain competitive in international markets.
 
Another important focus was sustainable industries, with attention to agriculture, fisheries, and other key sectors, ensuring that natural resources are managed responsibly while continuing to provide livelihoods and income for Pacific peoples.
 
Ministers also underscored the importance of standards and quality, reinforcing the need for robust regional systems so that Pacific goods can compete effectively on a global scale.
 
Mister Speaker, during the Forum Trade Ministers Meeting, discussions broadened to include investment, partnerships, and regional economic development. Key initiatives highlighted included the Pacific Aid-for-Trade Strategy 2026–2030, which will guide investments in trade facilitation, digital transformation, and sectoral diversification, particularly supporting MSMEs.
 
Ministers also endorsed the Pacific Regional Private Sector Strategy 2025–2030, recognising the central role of the private sector in job creation, inclusive growth, and resilience. Labour mobility was another area of focus, with Ministers agreeing on regional principles to support the safe, fair, and inclusive movement of workers, benefiting both communities and businesses.
 
Mister Speaker, additionally, Ministers noted progress on the Kava Declaration, recognising its cultural and economic significance, and committed to further technical work to ensure it delivers clear, actionable outcomes that provide tangible benefits to Pacific communities.
 
In summary, these meetings reinforced our collective commitment to a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Pacific economy. They highlighted the power of regional cooperation in advancing trade, investment, and development while protecting our natural resources and supporting our people.
 
Mister Speaker, through initiatives on sustainable industries, trade facilitation, standards, private sector growth, and labour mobility, Fiji and our Pacific partners are creating real opportunities for economic growth, community development, and stronger regional integration.
 
These outcomes demonstrate that when we work together, we not only respond to global challenges but also secure a brighter and more sustainable future for all Pacific peoples.
 
If members require any further clarifications, the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs and Communications, together with the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, stands ready to address and share more information.
 
I thank you, Mr Speaker Sir.