A-G holds virtual talks with IMF head of mission

THE Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum virtually met with International Monetary Fund Head of Mission Todd Schneider to discuss the 2021 Article IV Consultation recently.

Discussions centred on Fiji’s current economic activity especially the recovery efforts in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic including in the tourism sector.

In his remarks, the A-G had the opportunity to provide an overview on the country’s vaccination drive, the gradual reopening of businesses around the country that will create greater economic activity and lead to more Fijians returning to work.

The A-G also highlighted the current unemployment assistance packages by the Fijian Government that is being made available to Fijians that have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He added that with the reopening of international borders, the tourism sector is expected to gradually recover as preparatory work by the industries involved have been ongoing.

The IMF has stated that aside from the pandemic, Fiji also remains highly vulnerable to climate change and natural disastersparticularly the effects of tropical cyclones.

In its end of mission statement, the IMF as noted that the impact of the pandemic on Fiji has been severe and emphasised the need for policies that will “aim to continue support in the near term as Fiji reopens and emerges from the pandemic”.

Also present at the discussions was Acting Permanent Secretary for Economy Shiri Goundar and other senior officials from the Ministry.