New Fiji-Australia partnership to support private sector development
The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism (Ministry) and the Australian Government funded, Market Development Facility (MDF) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Permanent Secretary for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Shaheen Ali, and Market Development Facility (MDF) Fiji Country Director, Victoria Carter, officiated the signing of the MOU which will establish a formal working relationship and facilitate Australian Government support for development of tourism, business outsourcing services and micro, small and medium enterprises.
The Ministry and MDF have thus far collaborated by sharing research, studies and the provision of technical advice when requested.
“The work of the Ministry and MDF are closely aligned so we are excited to formalise our partnership.
“Today’s signing will provide opportunities to seek technical assistance in implementing key strategies of the Fijian Tourism 2021,” highlighted Mr Ali.
Areas of collaboration
Some of the areas of collaboration the two organisations will embark on are regional branding, niche market development and business incubation services for young entrepreneurs.
MDF Fiji Country Director, Victoria Carter, said she is looking forward to working closer with MITT in support of Government’s national development strategies and targets.
“We are excited about the prospect of working alongside the key line Ministry for private sector development in the country and building on industry and enterprise development initiatives.
“Including the recently established Business Processing Outsourcing
(BPO) Council, Destination Marketing Organisations (DMOs) and Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation’s (FCEF) new MSME business accelerator service for women and young entrepreneurs.
“This new agreement demonstrates the commitment of the Australian Government to help
Fiji to grow and diversify the economy.” Present during the signing also were Joanna Houghton, Counsellor for Development Co-operation and Sarah Gwonyoma, Programme Manager – Private Sector Development and Economic Growth of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.