Distance A Challenge for Trade Between Fiji and South Africa
Fijian importers see the distance between Fiji and South Africa as a challenge.
The South African High Commission and local importers will now explore the possibility of easing the costs and the effect of a long distance separating the two countries on trade.
This was discussed during a round table discussion between the Commission and the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industries at the Tanoa International on Friday. The issue of distance and time span for products to arrive was highlighted by P Meghji Group director Operations Shayam Meghji in Lautoka which import wines directly from South Africa.
The purpose of the roundtable discussion was to search for means of increasing trade between South Africa and Fiji especially in the area of export business.
The initiative also assisted in promoting a better understanding of the South African market to the Fijian private business, and provided the opportunity to market South Africa as being open for business.
The discussions noted there was a need to magnify this scope of penetrating South African products into the Fiji market.
The High Commission highlighted wine, jewellery, leather and canned fruit as products which can do well in Fiji.
Fiji is seen as a hub and provides an important space to reach out to the other Pacific islands.
South African Chargé d’Affaires, Velelo G. Kwepile said Fijian importers attended some trade fairs in different countries. They were able to view South African products where South African companies were participating.
The High Commission was ready to assist and take the lead in discussing trade with the relevant institutions in South Africa.
“On 15 February 2018, the new President, Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa, was sworn in.
“He has brought a lot of excitement not only in South Africa but also to beyond its borders.
“The markets have reacted positively and the Rand, the South African currency, has appreciated remarkably (which may not necessarily be good news to importers of South African goods and products).
“His presidency has seen the emergence of renewal, hope and opportunity in our country.
“Economically, South Africa is on an improved growth path – albeit a modest one at this stage.
“Tabling the National Budget Speech earlier last week, Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba now sees the improved growth projections for 2018 and subsequent years as a floor, rather than a ceiling.
“He expects growth for the 2017 fiscal year to improve from a previous estimate of 0.7 per cent to one per cent.
“For this year South Africa’s economic growth is viewed at 1.5 per cent, rising to 2.1 per cent in 2020.
“While this is a good start, there are immediate policy interventions that South Africa needs to ensure that the right environment is created for investment, growth and employment.”