Millions invested by local investors
More than $200 million has been invested into more than 30 projects by local investors during the past nine months.
This was highlighted by the Investment Fiji chief executive officer Godo Mueller- Teut. “From August last year until April 2017, Investment Fiji has assisted in the implementation of more than 30 projects by local investors valued at more than $200 million. “These projects provided employment opportunities to close to 2,000 Fijians,” he said.
Mr Mueller-Teut said it is encouraging to see that local companies are putting money back into our economy.
“This is a clear indication of the strong confidence in Fiji’s thriving economy. “We want our local companies to grow, not only here in Fiji but reach out to international markets, punch above our weight and place Fijian Made Products amongst the best in the world,” he said. Mr Mueller-Teut said Investment Fiji performed over 1,300 customer site visits and handled on excess of 3,400 investment facilitation enquiries over the years.
“While one of our objectives is to attract foreign direct investments in the country, we also place a major emphasis on assisting investments by our local investors whose investment value exceeds $500,000.
“We see local investors as not only as important clients but as major contributors to the growth of the Fijian economy.
“Our trade and export team helps to assist in market identification, information on logistics and regulatory environments and undertakes research, facilities capacitybuilding workshops and helps exporters find a suitable market for their product,” he said.
Mr Mueller-Teut said their division works closely with the relevant agencies such as Biosecurity Authority of Fiji and Ministry of Industry and Trade to ensure exporters are aware of the market entry requirements of various countries.
“As part of the reforms within the organisation we have also developed an Engagement Model that depicts how we engage with our clients in an efficient manner. “We developed and provided a range of post establishment After Care support services through to developmental support to retain investment, and to encourage followon investments to achieve greater economic impact,” he said.