PACER Plus is a regional free trade agreement focused on trade, investment, services, development assistance, and labour mobility across the Pacific. While the agreement presents opportunities for greater regional integration and economic growth, Fiji must carefully assess whether it will deliver meaningful economic transformation or simply formalise existing trade arrangements. Fiji and Papua New Guinea remain the only Pacific Island countries yet to sign the agreement in its current form, highlighting the need for cautious consideration of the long-term economic implications. From a private sector perspective, the key issue is not whether Fiji should sign PACER Plus, but ensuring the terms of engagement support national interests, strengthen local industries, and create sustainable economic benefits for Fiji businesses and the wider economy.
Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER PLUS)
National Skills Gap Assessment Survey (2025)
The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF), in partnership with the Fiji Human Resources Institute, Higher Education Commission Fiji, Fiji Bureau of Statistics, and key development partners, officially launched the National Skills Gap Assessment Survey (2025) – the first survey of its kind in Fiji. The survey highlights critical labour market challenges, including widespread skills shortages across industries and education levels, increasing reliance on foreign workers, youth unemployment, and significant workforce losses through migration and seasonal work programmes. FCEF has called for urgent action to strengthen labour market policies, improve access to the 1% FNU Levy to support local workforce development, and streamline foreign worker recruitment processes to sustain business operations. The findings reinforce the importance of strong public-private partnerships and evidence-based policymaking to support Fiji’s economic growth, workforce resilience, and long-term development goals.
FCEF’S NATIONAL BUDGET SUBMISSION
FCEF is pleased to advise members that its submission for the National Budget 2026–2027 has been formally submitted to Government. The submission reflects key private sector priorities, recommendations, and business perspectives aimed at supporting economic growth, investment, and sustainable development in Fiji. Members can access the full submission by visiting the Members Hub via the link.