PRIME MINISTER BAINIMARAMA HIGHLIGHTED:
“With each application, and with each winner, we are able to inspire Fijians from all ages and walks of life with the lifechanging potential in operating a thriving business in Fiji.
“My friends, for that inspiration you have instilled in our country, and for your immense contributions to fueling Fiji’s ten-year streak of economic growth, I thank you. For that, I see everyone in this room as a winner for Fiji.
“The real beauty in this night is that the honourees of these awards have represented the range of diverse businesses that our country is becoming known for around the world. While our tourism providers are certainly always well-represented, it’s also refreshing to see so many new and upstart businesses and industries starting to pop up with increasing frequency with each passing year.
“Previous winners range from household names like Fiji Airways, to exporters of exciting, high-growth products and small startups that are harnessing technology to shake up existing industries. “But no matter the size of the company, every dollar invested by you in an investment in the future of Fiji. And your vote of confidence in our country’s political and economic stability has been contagious for the international community, as we’ve seen steady rises in foreign direct investment from markets like Australia, China, New Zealand, and PNG. And we’re seeing Fijianmade exports on the rise.
“But as larger economies around the world enter into trade wars and turmoil, and regional economies like Australia and New Zealand are slowing down alongside a global economic downturn globally, you can be mindful of these trends, but do not be demoralised. Even as growth softens around the region and world, Fiji has proven its resilience in the past, and we will prove it again. So instead, find the opportunity. This is actually precisely the time to take advantage of new incentives that we’ve put in place to insulate Fiji from that global trend, as it won’t last forever.
“This government is fully committed to helping continue that momentum in the years ahead. But this shouldn’t be seen as political –– it’s not about being “pro-worker” or “pro-business”, pretending that we can’t be both simultaneously. It’s about being pro-Fiji, and it’s about being pro-growth. So from creative incentives to tax reforms that are working to cultivate your businesses, to our work with development partners to break down barriers and restrictive trade policies –– like Australia’s easing of its longstanding kava restriction in the new year –– this government is behind you.”