Conference Aims to Up Trade Relation Between Fiji and NZ
ALONG WITH THE JOINT CONFERENCE, WE WILL BE BRINGING A BUSINESS MISSION TO FIJI : CHANDAR SEN
Abusiness mission will prelude the convergence of Fiji and its New Zealand business councils meeting. The business mission to Fiji will be held between June 20-23. New Zealand Fiji Business Council president, Chandar Sen, said the mission would comprise 30 business representatives.
“The business mission is a mix of businesses who are looking to invest in Fiji, do business with Fijian companies, procure Fijian products or supply goods and services out of New Zealand,” he said.
“Our objective is to grow the trading relationship in goods and services between the two countries.
“We have to cover lost ground because of the COVID-19 pandemic, as we head towards a growth trajectory of $2 billion.”
Mr Sen joins a list of speakers, including:
■ Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Ariff Ali,
■ New Zealand trade commissioner, David Stow,
■ New Zealand high commissioner to Fiji, Charlotte Darlow, and
■ Government representatives. President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, will be the key note speaker.
The theme for the event is New Beginnings: Partnering for a Sustainable Future.
The sessions would focus on three areas,
■ What does the Future Hold,
■ Lessons Learnt and a Sustainable Future, and
■ Connecting with the Community. Mr Sen is expected to speak about the work carried out by both countries, that could assist businesses.
Lobbying
The Fiji New Zealand and New Zealand Fiji Business Councils’ (FNZBC & NZFBC) advocates where central government inputs are required.
Such advocacy relates to tax treaties, the ability for businesses to travel freely between the two countries, and recommendations for the relevant government departments to consider.
The NZFB council would continue its objectives to encourage New Zealand companies to invest in Fiji, Mr Sen said.
They would also work with Fijian companies, sell New Zealand goods, and procure Fijian made goods and services, he said.
“This we will do via networking and business missions,” he said.
The 2022 joint conference will be at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa, Denarau Island, on June 23 and 24, 2022.
Challenges
Mr Sen said the biggest challenge for members was the inability to travel.
“We are thankful to the Fijian Government for making travel to Fiji a seamless process,” Mr Sen said.
“I can attest to that, as I have recently returned from Fiji.
“Fiji is truly open for business.
“We are hoping the New Zealand government will follow suit, to open its borders to Fijian business people straight away.
“We don’t see any reason why this can’t be done straight away.”
The joint conference has been a signature event for both councils.
“Not being able to hold this event in person was an unwelcome disruption in our events calendar,” Mr Sen said.
“It is only possible to do so at this time, because we can travel up to Fiji without any COVID-19 related restrictions.
“The efforts of our sister council, and the lifting of travel restrictions by the Fijian Government, is unconditionally appreciated.
“The councils have hosted a joint conference for some 30-plus years now.
“To have to forego two years in a row, makes this conference immensely significant.”
The councils have more than 100 members.
“We have new members joining.”