Message By The Deputy Prime Minister, Minister For Trade, Co-Operatives, Small And Medium Enterprises And Communications Hon. Manoa KamikamicA
Bula Vinaka! As we gather to commemorate World Consumer Rights Day, on behalf of the Fiji Government – I extend warm greetings to everyone as we celebrate the rights of every consumer. Consumer movements across the globe observe today, annually as a means of raising global awareness on consumer rights and needs – celebrating today demands that the rights of all consumers are respected and protected.
This year's theme, "Fair and Responsible AI for consumers," serves as a compelling embodiment of Fiji's progressive vision for cultivating a modern digital economy. The emphasis on harnessing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) reflects the nation's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies for the betterment of society. In aligning with this vision, Fiji seeks to ensure that AI development prioritises fairness and responsibility, particularly in catering to the diverse needs and interests of consumers in Fiji.
This year's theme resonates deeply with the evolving landscape of technological advancements, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence.
The transformative potential of AI technologies has ushered in a new era of possibilities, revolutionising the way people live, work, and interact with one another.
From personalised digital assistants to algorithm-driven decision-making processes, AI has become an integral part of our daily lives, shaping the future of consumer experiences in profound ways. However, amidst the promises of convenience and efficiency that AI offers, there are also significant challenges and ethical considerations that demand our attention. The unchecked proliferation of AI technologies risks exacerbating existing inequalities and perpetuating biases, particularly in consumer-facing sectors such as online commerce, customer service, and information retrieval.
The rise of generative AI chatbots, in particular, presents novel opportunities for enhancing consumer engagement but also raises critical questions about privacy, transparency, and accountability. As we navigate this complex landscape, it is incumbent upon us, as a Nation, to uphold the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability in the development and deployment of AI technologies.
The Fiji Government is committed to fostering an enabling environment that prioritises consumer protection and promotes responsible innovation in the digital sphere. Through strategic partnerships with consumer organisations, industry stakeholders, and civil society, we aim to harness the potential of AI technologies for the collective benefit of our people. The National Digital Strategy that the Ministry is working on will look at the effective introduction and harnessing of emerging technologies in Fiji like AI. The impact of AI on youth consumers is particularly significant. With the rise of digital natives, young Fijians are increasingly reliant on AI-driven platforms and services for their everyday needs. From educational tools powered by AI to social media algorithms shaping their online experiences, youth consumers are deeply entrenched in the AI ecosystem.
Therefore, it is imperative that we consider the unique vulnerabilities and opportunities that AI presents for our youth.
The Consumer Council of Fiji stands at the forefront of our efforts to safeguard consumer rights and promote fair and ethical business practices across our nation. Their unwavering commitment to consumer advocacy and empowerment has been instrumental in ensuring that the voices of all consumers are heard and respected.
I commend the Consumer Council for their invaluable contributions to our society and their tireless dedication to advancing the cause of consumer welfare.
As we reflect on the significance of World Consumer Rights Day, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to building a future where every consumer is empowered, informed, and protected. This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders – government, industry, civil society, and consumers themselves – to collaborate and co-create solutions that prioritise the well-being and dignity of all individuals.
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all Fijians for their continued support and engagement in championing the cause of consumer rights and responsibilities.
Together, let us embrace the transformative power of AI technologies while remaining steadfast in our commitment to fairness, accountability, and inclusivity.
Vinaka vakalevu.