WT/TPR/M/330  
12 April 2016  
(16-2032)  Page: 1/34  
Trade Policy Review Body 
23 and 25 February 2016  
 
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW 
FIJI 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Atanas Atanassov Paparizov (Bulgaria) 
CONTENTS 
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ....................................................... 2  
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF FIJI ............................................. 4  
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT ................................................................................ 8  
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS ........................................................................................ 11  
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF  FIJI AND ADDITION AL COMMENTS ................ 28  
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ......................................................... 33  
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Fiji are reproduced in document WT/T PR/M/330/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tr atop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 2 - 
 
  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
1.1.  The third Trade Policy Review of Fiji was he ld on 23 and 25 February 2016. The Chairperson 
H.E. Mr. Atanas Atanassov Paparizov (Bulgaria) welcomed the delegation of Fiji headed by 
H.E. Ambassador Nazhat Shameem Khan, Permanent Representative of Fiji to the WTO; the rest of 
her team, both from the capital and from the mission in Geneva; and the discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador Alfredo Suescum (Panama). 
1.2.  The Chairperson started the meeting by expre ssing, on behalf of all the membership, his 
condolences for the victims of cyclone Winston and deep regret for the devastation it had caused 
in Fiji. He very much appreciated the efforts of th e Fijian authorities to be present at the meeting, 
despite the unfortunate event that had affected their country in recent days. 
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Tr ade Policy Reviews and the main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by Fiji was contained in document WT/TPR/G/330 and 
that of the WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/330. 
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations had been  submitted in writing before the deadline of 
5.30 p.m. of 9 February 2016 and had been transmitted to the delegation of Fiji: China; Chinese 
Taipei; Republic of Korea; Australia; Canada; the United States; the European Union; Brazil; Japan 
and the Russian Federation. The following delegations submitted written questions after the 
deadline: New Zealand and Thailand. These question s had also been transmitted to the delegation 
of Fiji. 
1.5.  The Chairperson was very pleased to note that Fiji had had a positive economic performance 
since its second Trade Policy Review in 2009, with strong real GDP growth, relatively low inflation, 
and a declining budget deficit. Nonetheless, Fiji's  heavy reliance on exports of certain commodities 
and tourism made it vulnerable to external shocks, while the small size of its economy and the frequency of natural disasters also constrained its economic growth prospects. In this regard, the 
Chairperson pointed out that Fiji relied on the efforts of the international community to take 
measures to mitigate climate change and had become the first country in the world to ratify the UN climate deal agreed in Paris in December 2015. Moreover, Fiji bore high transportation costs 
mainly due to the poor infrastructure and remoteness, and hence substantial investments in this 
sector were required to improve the country's competitiveness and connectivity to external 
markets. Services constituted the most importan t sector of the economy with about a 70% share 
of GDP, followed by manufacturing, agricu lture, fisheries and related activities.  
1.6.  Over the last few years, Fiji had improved its human development indicators, achieving broad 
coverage in the provision of basic services, with declining overall poverty levels even though progress in rural areas was lagging. The Chairperson was sure that Members were interested in 
learning about what steps the Fijian authorities we re taking, or planned to take, to consolidate the 
country's economic development. The WTO membership wanted also to know the views of the authorities on Fiji's future economic and trade prospects. 
1.7.  The Government and Secretariat reports indicated that important political and legislative 
developments had occurred since Fiji's Review in 2009. Notably, a new Constitution came into force in September 2013 and some new trade-related laws were enacted in areas such as competition, government procurement, foreign in vestment, SPS measures, standards, agriculture, 
and shipping. Moreover, measures had been taken to boost Fiji's FDI inflows, for example, the 
minimum investment required for foreign investors had been eliminated in 2013. Nonetheless, both reports also indicated that further structural reforms were fundamental to foster Fiji's 
competitiveness, improve the investment and business climate, and raise potential GDP growth. 
1.8.  With regard to the overall trade policy framew ork, the two reports made clear that Fiji was 
strongly committed to the multilateral trading system. To foster its participation in the WTO, it 
opened a Permanent Mission in Geneva in June 2014. In their written questions, Members had 
encouraged Fiji to submit its outstanding WTO notifications. In particular, they had enquired about the time-frame for its notification of Category A commitments under the Trade Facilitation Agreement and for ratification of the Agreement itself.  WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 3 - 
 
  1.9.  Fiji had four regional trade agreements in force encompassing 41 partners (some of them 
were non-WTO Members). In this regard, severa l Members had expressed interest to know how 
Fiji's participation in these agreements was actua lly contributing to promote trade flows of goods 
and services with its regional partners.  
1.10.  The Secretariat's report showed that a difference remained between the overall bound 
average of 40.2% and Fiji's applied MFN tariff of  11.2% in 2015. The Chairperson recalled that in 
the 2009 Review of Fiji, Members had expressed concer n about the fact that only half of all tariff 
lines were bound and about the large gap between bound and applied MFN tariff rates, both of 
which imparted a degree of unpredictability to the tariff. At that time, Members had urged Fiji to 
make improvements in this area so as to render its trade regime more transparent and predictable. This time, the question of the predictability of Fiji's tariff regime was raised again 
given the persistent gap between the applied and bound rates. 
1.11.  Members also asked questions regarding, among others, the application of different excise 
duty rates on domestic and imported products; th e requirements for obtaining quarantine import 
permits for animal products and of other SPS measures; the rationale for the use of price controls; 
and the enforcement of intellectual property rights , in particular in the area of copyrights.  
1.12.  Regarding sectoral policies, questions were ra ised about: the restructuring of the sugar 
industry; the granting of tax concessions to the domestic fishing industry; the sustainable 
management of tuna fisheries; the use of local content requirements in cigarette manufacturing; the restructuring of the Fiji Electricity Authority and the granting of domestic subsidies to fossil fuels. In the area of services, some Members expressed concerns about recent increases in airport 
and port fees and charges and their impact on Fiji's international competitiveness. Further 
clarification was also sought on licensing requirements for telecommunication operators, and on the direction of Fiji's new development plan for the tourism sector.  
1.13.  The Chairperson was sure that these and many other themes would be touched upon in 
greater detail at the deliberations on the first an d second day of the meeting and they all looked 
forward to hearing Fiji's responses to these and other queries. He closed his introductory remarks 
by wishing Fiji a very successful third Trade Po licy Review. He looked forward to its active 
engagement in this TPR. 
1.14.  He also noted that a podcast would be made of the meeting which could be accessed on the 
Members' website. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 4 - 
 
  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF FIJI (H.E. MRS. NAZHAT SHAMEEM 
KHAN) 
2.1.  At the outset, I would like to convey the apol ogies of the Honourable Minister for Industry, 
Trade and Tourism, Mr. Faiyaz Siddiq Koya, who wa s supposed to deliver this opening statement. 
However, as you all may have heard over the news, Fiji was severely devastated by one of the 
strongest cyclones in its history, cyclone Wins ton over the weekend. The cyclone has caused 
significant damages to infrastructure and properties of many Fijians. Tragically, lives have also 
been lost. 
2.2.  During this time of national crisis, the Honourable Minister and the Permanent Secretary for 
Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism, Mr. Shaheen Ali, who was initially also part of this Review delegation, are heavily involved in the National Disaster Management Committee in coordinating 
relief. It is because of this reason that they are no t here today in Geneva and, therefore, I fill in on 
behalf of Minister as Head of delegation to this important review. I am assisted today by an enable 
and expert team from Fiji and also by members of the Fiji Mission to Geneva. 
2.3.  The Fijian Government welcomes this Review by the WTO and we are pleased to be here to 
discuss Fiji’s trade and investment policies an d future trade and development aspirations. 
2.4.  As already noted, we have provided written answers to the questions which have been asked 
in advance by Members and we have also provided answers to those questions which were 
submitted after the deadline. 
2.5.  I am pleased to report that as one of the key milestones since Fiji’s last review, Fiji has 
established its Permanent Mission in Geneva to ac tively participate and promote Fiji’s national 
interest at International Organizations including the WTO. 
2.6.  On behalf of the Fijian Government, I wish to thank the WTO Secretariat for its 
comprehensive report on our trade and economic po licies. It complements the Fijian Government’s 
national report. Both reports provide a sound basis for in-depth discussions over the coming two 
days of our Trade Policy Review. I express our appreciation to Ambassador Suescum from Panama for his enthusiasm in approaching the role of di scussant for our TPR. Furthermore, we thank the 
Members for their written questions. 
2.7.  Fiji supports the Trade Policy Review Mechanis m. It is an effective means of ensuring 
transparency and maintaining confidence in the global trading system. 
2.8.  Since Fiji’s last Trade Policy Review in 2009, the Fijian Government has undertaken 
significant structural and economic reforms that ha ve led to the transformation of its economy. As 
a result, the Fijian economy is experiencing one of  the best growth cycles, since its independence. 
The Fijian economy is estimated to grow by 4% in 2015 and has recorded its sixth year of 
consecutive average growth of 3.5% for the period 2010–2015.  
2.9.  The unprecedented economic growth rates in recent years, coupled with high investment and 
stable macroeconomic indicators speak volumes of business confidence in the Fijian economy. To a 
large extent, this confidence stems from political stability as well as the visionary development 
initiatives of Fiji’s current leadership. In 2014, Fiji held its first truly democratic elections under the 2013 Constitution. The 2013 Constitution, for the first time, guarantees equal citizenry and socio-economic rights.  
2.10.  Mr. Chairman, you will note that the Fijian economy was growing at a time when there was 
a global downturn. As a small island state, Fiji has introduced effective policy measures such as streamlining: 
1. Corporate taxes; 
2. Personal taxes; 
3. Removal of fiscal duties on raw materials required by Fijian manufacturers; 
4. Reduction of duties on machinery and equipment;   
5. Significant investment in infrastructure (including roads, sea ports and airport); and 
6. Introduction of free primary and secondary education. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 5 - 
 
  2.11.  The Fijian economy is predominantly made up of services (70%) followed by the industry 
sector constituting 15% and the primary sectors (including agriculture, forestry and fisheries) representing 14%. As stated earlier, since 2010. Fiji has gone through unprecedented levels of growth. Furthermore, in the past two years, the Fijian economy has grown at an average rate of 
5%, which is unheard of in the Fijian history especially when the global economy was experiencing 
a growth of about 3.1%.  
2.12.  The major fundamental factors, which contributed to the sustained increase in growth of the 
economy is clearly derived from creating a business friendly environment for doing business and 
private sector growth. In particular, initiative s by the Government (including tax breaks and 
incentives) and long-term, consistent and pro-growth  policies have also played a part in higher 
levels of investment. 
2.13.  Hence, Fiji is riding an investment wave of over 25% of GDP in the past 3 years, with 2013 
recording the highest investment levels of 29%. Currently, 75% of this investment is by the private sector, of which approximately 50% of th e investments are by domestic investors. This 
demonstrates the confidence that the private sector  has in Fiji and the Fijian Government policies 
and strategies. 
2.14.  But only a few years ago, the bulk of the in vestment was from Government’s programme to 
invest in infrastructure. That focus on investing in infrastructure is being maintained. Indeed, 40% 
of government expenditure is on building and upgrading infrastructure, particularly basic infrastructure such as, roads, bridges, ports, airports, as well as improving education and communication technology. 
2.15.  Since the last review, there have been significant changes in Fiji’s trading patterns and 
relations. Fiji has broadened its trading horizon, accessed emerging markets and increased the number of countries that Fiji trades with. It has stamped its mark as the regional hub of the 
Pacific, becoming a major re-export hub, for prod ucts such as oil, food, non-food products, 
machinery and equipment to name a few, that are destined for the region. 
2.16.  With regards to export performance, Fiji’s export markets are highly concentrated, with the 
largest three export markets (Australia, the United States of America and the United Kingdom) 
accounting for 52% of the export total in 2012, and the largest five export markets (the top three 
plus New Zealand and Japan) accounting for almost  70% of the total. Furthermore, three of the 
top four export markets are dominated by a single commodity, sugar in the case of the 
United Kingdom, mineral water in the case of the United States, and fish in the case of Japan. 
2.17.  The performance of exports in 2013 saw a slight shift in the export destinations rankings, 
with the largest three export markets (Australia, the United States of America and New Zealand) 
accounting for 42% of the export total. The largest five export markets for 2013 (Australia, 
United States of America, New Zealand, the Unit ed Kingdom and Tonga) accounted for 60% of the 
total exports. In 2014, Fiji’s total exports grew by 28.8% with the United States of America, 
Australia and the United Kingdom being the top th ree export destinations accounting for 42% of 
total exports. 
2.18.  The five highest export markets for 2014 accounted for 56% of total exports and these are 
the United States of America, Australia, the Un ited Kingdom, China and New Zealand. Among the 
rest of the major export countries, American Samoa was the highest with almost 4%, and then 
followed by sixteen markets each accounting for between 0.5% and 2.5% of total exports, or 
between F$7 million and F$30 million annually. 
2.19.  In 2014, the United States of America, Australia, the United Kingdom, China and 
New Zealand accounted for 16%, 15%, 11%, 8% and 6% of total Fiji exports respectively. Despite the reduction in percentage terms, the values in absolute terms have increased in the top five 
export destinations.  
2.20.  The trend from 2012 to 2014 depicts diversificat ion in Fiji export markets where emerging 
Pacific export destinations have also contributed to the increasing export receipts which are usually dominated by key traditional markets such as Australia and New Zealand. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 6 - 
 
  2.21.  The provisional export figures for the third quar ter of 2015 highlights exports of F$1.7 billion 
of total exports and imports of F$3.97 billion. Fiji’s total trade figure in 2016 is expected to surpass that of 2014. 
2.22.  In terms of commodity exports, the major ex ports commodities or the "big five" major 
exports have been dominated by the export mix in recent years of mineral water, sugar, 
garments, fish and gold. These five exports on average accounted for 73% of total domestic exports over the period 2008-2014. 
2.23.  In order to continue this upward trajectory  in terms of trade, Fiji saw the need to 
consolidate the approach taken towards trade an d investment aspirations. Accordingly, Fiji 
developed and launched the first Fijian Trade Policy Framework in July 2015. 
2.24.  This for the first time in the Fijian history, provides a collaborative, holistic and consistent 
approach to expanding Fiji’s trade and investment interests. Through this policy we are able to 
bring together all stakeholders, that is, the Government, private sector and civil society. This is embedded in the implementation mechanism of th e Framework, which is the National Trade and 
Development Council (NTDC) chaired by the Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism. The NTDC 
reports directly to Cabinet. The five specialized subcommittees under the NTDC comprise of Government, private sector and civil society. These subcommittees implement the various policy 
recommendations that will enhance industry development, investments and trade. Therefore, all 
collective decisions will be presented to Cabinet to determine future trade and investment related policy direction. 
2.25.  Since Fiji as a small island economy cannot produce all the goods and services required by 
its consumers, trade remains an integral part of the Fijian economy. Fiji’s trade policy is 
characterized by an overall openness, compleme nted by autonomous liberalization beyond WTO 
commitments, while also allowing Government to retain the policy space necessary to absorb 
external shocks and to account for changing tr ading circumstances. Fiji remains committed to 
pursuing policies aimed at promoting the expansion of markets at bilateral, regional and multilateral levels, as well as the diversification of Fiji’s export product base. 
2.26.  In Fiji’s view, the maintenance of the integrity and credibility of the WTO is a key 
component in the mix of global policy approaches needed to ensure sustained global economic growth. The continued failure to conclude the Doha Round risks undermining the WTO’s credibility and its ability to perform effectively. This is of particular concern to a small trade dependent 
country, such as Fiji, which relies on the protections offered by the rules of the multilateral trading 
system, even though some of those rules are burd ensome on Fiji itself and many should, indeed, 
be improved to make the multilateral trading system fair and inclusive for all Members. Fiji 
remains fully committed to the DDA and has been disappointed at the inability of the WTO 
membership arriving at concrete developmental outcomes for the DDA since 2001. 
2.27.  Fiji was very hopeful that we would get some positive outcomes from the 10th Ministerial 
Conference held in Kenya. However, the eventu al outcome, despite intensive negotiations, was 
rather disappointing. The hope of the DDA was to bring tangible benefits for developing countries, including farmers and fishermen in rural areas where the potential for the economic development through trade still burns high. 
2.28.  For Fiji, fisheries are an integral part of our way of life and a key resource. Therefore, it is 
important to ensure that fisheries resources are managed in a sustainable manner and that the activities of the present generation should not compromise the needs of the future generations. 
2.29.  Mr Chairman, as you are aware, in the last Ministerial Conference, Fiji took a leading role as 
the focal point for the African, Caribbean and the Pacific Group of States. The ACP submitted proposals at various stages to secure legally binding commitments for Members disciplining 
fisheries subsidies. However, to our disappointment, the Nairobi Ministerial Declaration was the 
first Ministerial Declaration since fisheries subsidies negotiations were mandated not to make explicit mention of this issue. In that regard, Fiji urges all Member countries to continue collaborating to seek a meaningful outcome, at minimum in line with the global commitments 
made in the 2030 Agenda for Development. We do our own futures a disservice if we do not. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 7 - 
 
  2.30.  In spite of Fiji’s limited human and capital resources, we place great importance on the need 
to actively participate in the WTO. The setting up of our Mission in Geneva in 2014 is a testimony of our determination. We are working hard to ensure that the small voice of the Pacific is heard, both in WTO negotiations and in its regular work. Regrettably, despite our efforts, Fiji faces 
particular challenges at the WTO decision making bodies. A current example of these challenges is 
the consultations under way for nominating Chairs for the various WTO bodies. Guidelines adopted by the General Council in 2012 created four regional groups through which such consultations are 
supposed to happen. Until our delegation raised this  issue in the last two weeks, it had seemingly 
not occurred to anyone that the Pacific Members of the WTO were not included in any of the regional groups. Upon inquiry we were told that we logically belonged in the Asia Group, but as yet this has not been resolved and Fiji, along with the other Pacific Island Members, has effectively 
been excluded from regional group consultations on the matter. Fiji’s presence here now enables 
us to defend our national interest, but fairness and equity in participation should be something that the system defends, rather than leaving it to individual Members to argue for. This is just one 
example of how Fiji and other Pacific Island WTO Members are not always considered or heard in 
critical decision making processes. 
2.31.  Fiji notes that questions have been raised by the Members in regard to Fiji’s outstanding 
notifications. Fiji’s lack of notification does not mean Fiji’s lack of commitment to its WTO 
obligations. It does, however, reflect the small admi nistrative capacity that the Ministry of Trade 
has in dealing with all WTO issues, requiring conscious prioritization in work possible. Notifications are particularly burdensome and time-consuming requirement which Fiji will nonetheless try to 
meet as soon as practicable. 
2.32.  Questions have been asked by the Members in te rms of Fiji’s intentions to ratify the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement (TFA). In this regard, I am  pleased to report that Fiji has finalized its 
national priorities and needs assessments and categorization process. Fiji is currently undertaking 
internal technical re-confirmation of categories in preparation for final validation by the National Trade and Development Committee. That recommenda tion then will be submitted to Cabinet for 
consideration and subsequently to Parliament for ratification. The entire process is expected to be 
completed during the 2016 Parliament calendar. 
2.33.  We invite the Members of the WTO to consider  Fiji’s Trade policies and practices in the 
context which I have outlined above. We shall cont inue to work with the WTO Membership with the 
ultimate objectives of using the rules-based sy stem of the WTO to promote economic growth, 
poverty alleviation, and sustainable development an d to raise the living standards of all Fijians. 
2.34.  Fiji remains committed to maintaining an open economy and continues to value the 
importance of maintaining a rules-based multilat eral trading system. However, as a small and 
vulnerable economy, geographically and logistically located far from major markets and trading routes, facing supply-side infrastructure and productivity constraints and highly susceptible to 
natural disasters and climate change challenges, the country is at risk of further being 
marginalized if the multilateral trading system does not take into account such realities. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 8 - 
 
  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT 
3.1.  I wish, firstly to extend a warm welcome to H.E Ambassador Nazhat Shameem Khan and her 
delegation from Geneva and from capital for their presence here today. I am sorry that the Honourable Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism is unable to join us, due to the tragic 
consequences of cyclone Winston and the state of emergency in Fiji. I too also extend my sincerest 
condolences to your people and Government, and wishes for a prompt return to something close to normality. 
3.2.  This is Fiji’s third TPR. Members in 2009 felt that the exercise had been fruitful, characterized 
by open and constructive engagement, and provided  everyone with a better understanding of Fiji’s 
trade and trade-related policies, the challenges it faced, as well as its technical cooperation needs.  Everything I have read for today’s examination by way of the reports, questions, policy 
frameworks, etc., bodes well for another positive assessment and another productive exercise.   
3.3.  Perhaps a general review of the last TPR would help set the stage for a proper appreciation of 
the progress Fiji has made, as well as for the existing challenges.   
3.4.  In 2009, Members expressed general satisfaction with Fiji’s efforts to liberalize customs 
procedures, with its FDI regime, and efforts to create a business-friendly environment. Special 
note was made, given Fiji’s strengths in services and their particular connectivity challenges, of 
efforts to create a financial intelligence unit, and an independent telecoms regulatory authority.  
3.5.  Members also expressed concern about low binding levels for both GATT, and GATS 
commitments. Members urged Fiji to make improvem ents in these areas. They had also expressed 
concern about upward trends in the average applied MFN tariff rate, though the Government had 
stated that tariff reduction was one of Fiji’s main trade policy instruments.  
3.6.  Members expressed concern over levels of notifications in several areas, and sought 
clarifications regarding certain practices. Fiji was urged to ensure that RTAs remain complimentary 
to the multilateral trading system, there was much interest in a strengthened IP regime, and the 
lack of representation in Geneva was pointed to as a handicap.  
3.7.  This last point, the lack of a Geneva represen tation has been obviously very well taken care 
of. I want to stress before continuing how helpful, knowledgeable, skilled and diligent the Geneva 
Mission has been in helping prepare for today’s exercise. The Mission has been vocal and active from day one in Geneva, both individually on issues of individual interest, but also in taking the lead role in certain issues in various groupings such as the ACP during the Nairobi Ministerial. More 
than simply having made its presence felt, it is well respected, and Fiji can be proud of its 
representation which reflects the level of Fiji’s commitment to the MTS. 
3.8.  There has been palpable progress in many of the pending issues since 2009. Certain 
important political events have occurred since, like the enactment of a new constitution in 2013, 
and successful parliamentary elections in 2014. The Constitution aims, among other important goals, to reduce sources of severe social friction, such as eliminating certain race-based and 
hereditary institutions. The new Parliament was elected under these new principles, and the 
Government feels a political environment with less friction allows it greater latitude to return to basics regarding, among other things, trade and trade related policies. 
3.9.  Overall, Fiji’s trade regime, its relative openness and the government’s macroeconomic 
policies and structural reforms have been forces for stability and improvement. It has registered 
positive economic performance since 2009 with real  strong GDP growth, relatively low inflation, 
and a declining budget deficit. All this is particul arly remarkable given the global trade during this 
period and the certain aspects of Fiji's situation such as its condition as a small island developing 
State and its connectivity problems. 
3.10.  In July 2015, the Government of Fiji published its Trade Policy Framework for 2015-2025 
(TPF). In line with the thinking regarding social reform and human development which was 
incorporated in the new Constitution, the Fram ework seeks to address the usual trade-related 
areas, but has sections also specific to human resource and social development that it considers essential for sustainable economic growth, including land, labour, gender, health and WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 9 - 
 
  anti-corruption measures. Many of the sections in the TPF have crosscutting implications. Thus, for 
example, the objectives for fisheries reform of  necessity integrate a significant environmental 
component. Indeed, Fiji's concern for environmental issues is reflected by in its incredibly rapid ratification of December’s Paris outcomes. Fiji’s advocacy in the WTO has recognized these 
multiple dimensions. The Framework has yet, however, to receive broad and easy distribution. Just 
before cyclone Winston, I was still unable to access the document on the MITT website, for example. 
3.11.  Some challenging factors, of course, remain constant, like the size of Fiji’s internal market, 
its condition as a small island developing state with its consequent remoteness and high transportation costs. Fiji has had to confront several other challenges as well, such as the recent global downturn, and natural disasters such as cyclone Winston.   
3.12.  A small number of strong economic activities and highly concentrated export markets 
continue to make it vulnerable to external shocks. Fiji’s remoteness underlies the substantial necessary investments identified (such as transportation, telecoms and trade-related 
infrastructure) in the last review. The TPF identifies  these as priorities. This review will probably 
produce details on progress in these projects. 
3.13.  By way of customs and trade facilitation efforts, Fiji can point to significant advances 
particularly in customs automation and transparency efforts through the launch of ASYCUDA 
World, in cooperation with UNCTAD and donors. As is the normal progression, Fiji is rolling out the system incrementally, starting in Suva, the capital. It is also moving in phases to institutionalize a single customs window system. 
3.14.  Fiji has taken substantial steps to improve a ccess and treatment of FDI, and sought to 
create a more business friendly environment. It has, for example, eliminated minimum investment requirements, and simplified the investment regi stration process. However, the legal framework 
for certain sectors reserves activities or majority ownership for nationals. Also, much work must 
follow to facilitate procedures beyond the mere registration of investment. It would be important 
that the trade facilitation and promotion milestones and targets set in Fiji’s Trade Policy 
Framework be understood to encompass this broader objective. 
3.15.  The number of bindings and commitments remain relatively low in both merchandise and 
services. This is not surprising, given the state of access negotiations in the WTO. The TPF sets forth Fiji’s vision regarding aspects of this issue, reaffirming its commitment to substantial and 
meaningful access outcomes in development centred negotiations. It has presented positions for 
its own account, and as part of various groups, including SIDS, SVEs, ACP, and the W52 group. 
3.16.  Notifications remain a concern. Perhaps this third review will help in identifying not just 
areas in which assistance and cooperation may be needed, but also additional sources or 
methodologies for improving performance in this important aspect of the WTO’s work. 
3.17.  Fiji has also made important amendments to its IP regime. More information regarding 
these would be helpful. I understand that Fiji last week presented responses to several 
outstanding questions from its TRIPS Council review . As a former TRIPS Council Chair, I thank Fiji 
for its continued attention to transparency issues in the WTO. 
3.18.  The reports prepared for today’s review by Fiji and the Secretariat refer to the important 
and substantial steps taken by Fiji since 2009 to address Members’ concerns and its own policy 
priorities. These reports and the various questions forwarded so far also point to certain other areas where Members have particular interest in further discussions. Some are new, some are 
continuing. Among these, Members have highlighted:  
a. Fiji’s vision and plans regarding the TFA and the TRIPS Agreement Amendment; 
b. possible plans to join the WTO plurilateral agreements; 
c. steps envisioned for the implementation of SME promotion policies; 
d. information on fisheries policies regarding management of competition, exports and 
reporting to international bodies; WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 10 - 
 
  e. a desire for greater details regarding plans to promote production and export of agricultural 
products that meet the standards of international markets, clarification of notified measures, importation requirements and procedures and their application; 
f. steps foreseen to promote awareness of the new competition law and policy, including issues 
related to price controls, telecoms, maritime services, and financial services; 
g. potential privatization and issues of preferential treatment of STEs; 
h. efficiency, access and transparency in government procurement; 
i. tariff rates and AVEs of up to 1257% on certain products; and 
j. sustainable energy policies. 
3.19.  Before I conclude, I would like to thank Fiji and all Members for the constructive 
engagement they have shown in carrying out thus far this review, and the Secretariat for their 
usual hard work. These exercises are particularly useful to new Governments by providing a sort of 
guide for action on trade and trade-related policies. The hard work increases this utility, and should assist in putting some flesh on the bones of the TPF. 
3.20.  I do not foresee presenting questions of my own – I think Members can sufficiently cover 
issues where they may need additional clarifications. Hopefully, I have been and may continue to be of service throughout this review in presenting helpful points of view or commentary. 
3.21.  I wish everyone a productive and useful review. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 11 - 
 
  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS 
CANADA 4.1.  Canada welcomes this opportunity to participate in the 2016 Trade Policy Review of Fiji 
although we wish we were doing so under different circumstances. I was saddened to learn of the 
recent tragic and devastating impact of Cyclone Wi nston on Fiji and would like to extend Canada’s 
heartfelt sympathies to H.E. Mrs Shameem Khan and her delegation. 
4.2.  I commend Fiji on the structural and economic reforms undertaken since the last Trade Policy 
Review in 2009, its return to parliamentary democracy, in its continued efforts to promote trade 
and economic growth. I further commend Fiji for its strong commitment to the multilateral trading system and for opening a Permanent Mission here in Geneva in June 2014. 
4.3.  Fiji's reliance on trade and tourism make it vulnerable to external shocks, while high 
transportation costs (poor infrastructure and remoteness), the small size of its economy, and the 
frequency of natural disasters also constrain its economic growth prospects. Further reforms are therefore necessary to reduce the bottlenecks in th e economy, strengthen its resilience to shocks, 
foster competitiveness, improve the investment climate, and raise potential GDP growth. I hope 
that Fiji's first ever Trade Policy Framework 2015-2025, launched in July 2015, will help address some of these challenges. 
4.4.  In an effort to improve the business environm ent and boosting FDI inflows, the Government 
deserves credit for the simplification of the investment registration process though the creation of the "single window clearance" application system, which will undoubtable have a positive affect for Canadian companies exploring investment opportunities in the extractive sector. Nonetheless, 
continued investor uncertainty over political and economic stability, and exchange rate restrictions 
have limited FDI inflows. We therefore urge Fiji to continue reviewing its macroeconomic policies and explore additional structural reforms, such as re-evaluating whether price control continues to 
be the most effective approach in relation to particular markets. 
4.5.  Canada is proud to work with Fiji through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives and 
commends Fiji for its work towards improving its human development indicators, and achieving 
broad coverage in the provision of basic services, with declining overall poverty levels. Canada 
hopes these efforts will be further extended to rural areas where progress is lagging behind national levels. 
4.6.  Permit me to briefly identify a number of areas that merit focus in Fiji’s ongoing reform 
efforts. First, Fiji has made important strides to  amendment its intellectual property right regime, 
particularly on trademarks, and I commend Fiji for moving towards accepting the Protocol Amending the WTO TRIPS Agreement.  
4.7.  Secondly, in 2010, Fiji introduced a new co mprehensive competition law that addresses 
competition affairs, consumer protection, and price controls. These efforts to promote an open market economy are to be commended and Canada welcomes efforts on the part of the 
Government to further liberalize markets across all sectors. 
4.8.  The Government is also working towards a Financial Management Bill, covering the 
accountability of financial management in the public sector, of which Canada is a strong proponent. Canada further acknowledges the gove rnment of Fiji’s focus and intent on public 
reforms including financial management in the public sector, and welcomes movement towards 
greater accountability and transparency. This is of particular relevance given the Fijian government's commitment to funding the development of quality infrastructure through 
multilateral and bilateral agency contributors. Transition from planned reforms to actual 
implementation remain an area of interest, and in this regard, Canada looks forward to continued engagement with Fiji at the multilateral level in  promoting an open market economy and economic 
prosperity. 
4.9.  Finally, we note that, since the last review, Fiji has enacted new trade-related laws in the 
a r e a  o f  S P S .  A s  c o n v e y e d  i n  o u r  w r i t t e n  q u e s t i o n ,  C a n a d a  i s  i n t e r e s t e d  i n  a n  u p d a t e  o n  t h e  implementation of the two SPS measures notified to the WTO, as well as information concerning WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 12 - 
 
  any additional measures that have been enacted. Ca nada also recognizes the efforts of Fiji in the 
domain of fisheries subsidy disciplines, including its engagement in Nairobi, leading to a Ministerial statement on the issue. 
4.10.  Finally, Canada appreciates the opportunity to participate in this review and we wish the 
delegation of Fiji the utmost success during this process. 
NEW
 ZEALAND 
4.11.  New Zealand expresses its condolences to Fiji following the devastation by Cyclone Winston, 
and New Zealand stands ready to assist the people of Fiji as they deal with the aftermath. This is a 
significant external shock.   
4.12.  Let me say that I was troubled by Ambassador Khan’s comments on the lack of consultation 
with the Pacific in regional groupings at the WTO – we need to ensure this does not happen again. 
My delegation would be happy to work with you to correct this.  
4.13.  New Zealand has a significant interest in Fiji’s trade and investment policies, given the close 
links between our two countries. Fiji is a key re gional partner for us. New Zealand welcomed the 
development of Fiji’s first ever Trade Policy Fram ework in 2015 and we view this strategy as a 
valuable tool to guide Fiji’s trade, industry, investment and economic agenda. The benefits realised from this framework will be evident in time and New Zealand looks forward to hearing about these, 
including through the Trade Policy Review process.  We also welcome the important signal sent by 
Fiji, in the establishment of its Mission to WTO in Geneva, of its commitment to Multilateral Trading System.  
4.14.  New Zealand was impressed by Fiji’s economic performance since its last Trade Policy 
Review in 2009. It is evident that trade reforms introduced during the past 7 years have 
contributed to Fiji’s trade performance. New Zealand welcomes your continuing efforts to facilitate the flow of imports and exports. Implementation  of policies which will insulate Fiji from the 
negative effects of external shocks will allo w for a more stable trade posture. New Zealand 
encourages Fiji to notify its Category A commitm ents under the Agreement on Trade Facilitation as 
soon as possible.  
4.15.  Like us, Fiji has a strong focus on agricultural exports. Having robust biosecurity policies and 
processes in place that are transparent and non-di scriminatory will ensure that Fiji’s goal of an 
economically and environmentally sustainable agricultural economy is achievable. New Zealand views Fiji’s goal to decrease its reliance on impo rted fossil fuels, and instead increase the use of 
renewable energy, as a positive step both on  economic and environmental grounds. We are 
pleased to say that New Zealand is working with Fiji  bilaterally on a number of projects. If Fiji went 
further and removed domestic subsidies on fossil fuels, this would provide additional incentives in 
favour of renewable energy sources, as well as improving the environment. Any policies and 
measures which limit reliance on fossil fuels will reduce volatile energy import costs and will be of broader benefit to Fiji. As a broader point, we also wanted to underline the significance that we 
attach to this issue for all WTO Members and look forward to hearing more on this, including 
through the Trade Policy Review process. 
4.16.  New Zealand is also strongly supportive and views positively Fiji’s approach to the 
sustainable management of its fisheries. We welcome Fiji’s ambition and leadership within the ACP 
group on fisheries subsidies negotiations at th e WTO. We share your disappointment about the 
lack of reference to fisheries subsidies in the Nairobi Declaration. Your leadership mattered. We thank Fiji for joining the Ministerial Statement on Fisheries Subsidies at the MC10 in Nairobi in 
December 2015. Robust monitoring of the fisheries sector, along with the development and 
implementation of policies and plans which protect this valuable resource, will have long lasting benefit.  
4.17.  New Zealand believes that restructuring and streamlining of Fiji’s regulatory framework and 
associated processes for trade and investment will increase investor confidence to the benefit of Fiji. New Zealand has a long trading relationship with Fiji and looks forward to strengthening it through the PACER plus negotiations which we hope to conclude by June 2016. We expect that this 
kind of agreement will further enhance and strengthen Fiji’s economy, our bilateral relationship, WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 13 - 
 
  and the multilateral system itself as we both sh are this goal that such agreements should be 
supportive of the multilateral trading system. 
4.18.  In conclusion, the reports by the Secretariat and the Government of Fiji illustrate the 
positive steps Fiji is taking to ensure an open  and stable trading and economic environment, in 
particular through the implementation of the Tr ade Policy Strategy. New Zealand encourages Fiji 
to continue with these trade-related reforms an d looks forward to working with Fiji and other 
Pacific Island nations on concluding the PACER Plus Agreement to maximise economic benefit. 
AUSTRALIA 
4.19.  At the outset, let me join other in expressing Australia's sympathies with the people of Fiji, 
particularly those who have lost family and friends as a result of Tropical Cyclone Winston, the largest recorded cyclone to hit the country. Australia is assisting and stands ready to provide 
further assistance to support Fiji's relief and recovery efforts. 
4.20.  Australia and Fiji have a long history of partnership and cooperation. Our bilateral 
relationship is broad and deep, and spans all sectors. We both have a strong commitment to 
economic cooperation. Australia is Fiji's second largest merchandise export destination and the 
second largest source of Fijian merchandise imports. We are also Fiji's second largest two-way merchandise trading partner. Two-way goods and services trade was worth over A$1.7 billion in 
2014-2015. 
4.21.  Australia is also one of Fiji's largest foreign investors, with investment valued at 
approximately A$2.3 billion as at the end of 2014, focusing on tourism, the financial sector and 
some manufacturing. 
4.22.  We welcome Fiji's focus on facilitating engagement in bilateral, regional and multilateral 
trade frameworks. We support Fiji's efforts to expa nd and secure meaningful market access for its 
growing industrial and agricultural bases, and inte grate the Fijian economy into the global trading 
environment. The Market Development Facility is Australia's flagship private sector development 
programme in Fiji, worth A$8.8 million over four years from 2013-17. The Market Development Facility partners with the Fijian private sector to provide extensive support to a wide range of 
Fijian goods and service exporters, thereby crea ting employment and supporting economic growth. 
4.23.  Trade is vital to both Australia and Fiji's economies and we have a shared interest in a 
strong, open and rules-based multilateral trading system. We encourage Fiji to accept the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation, and to notify its Category A commitments as soon as possible. 
When implemented, the Agreement will deliver su bstantial development and job creation benefits 
for WTO Members including Fiji. 
4.24.  Like Fiji, Australia remains committed to successful regional integration. Australia welcomes 
Fiji's commitment to the successful negotiation of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic 
Relations (PACER) Plus, outlined in its trade policy review statement submitted to the WTO. A well-rounded and forward-looking Agreement, with a strong focus on development, will support Fiji 
in its economic growth aspirations. By integrat ing the Pacific into one market, PACER Plus will 
simplify and harmonize trade and investment rules and negotiations, thereby reducing the costs to traders and investors. Australia shares Fiji's desire to see PACER Plus ease mo bility of Fijian labour 
into member countries, increase Foreign Direct Investment and improve trade facilitation and 
market access for Fijian exporters. Australia, along with our Pacific Island Country partners, is 
committed to finalizing PACER Plus by mid-2016, and we look forward to continuing to work with Fiji to this end. 
4.25.  Another tangible commitment by Australia to prosperity and economic integration in our 
region is in the area of labour mobility. Under Australia's Seasonal Worker Programme over 150 Fijian workers have been granted visas, a tangible example of our efforts to boost job access 
and regional labour mobility. Further recruitments are in the pipeline. 
4.26.  We note Fiji's commitment to improving it s business enabling environment and encourage 
Fiji to continue to make it easier for foreign companies to enter the Fijian market. Lengthy and complicated business registration processes have hi ndered investment, with foreign investors often WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 14 - 
 
  dissuaded by the costs in time and money of establishing their presence. As a key trading, 
investment and development partner, Australia stands ready to provide additional assistance to Fiji in its efforts to improve the investment climate. 
4.27.  Fiji's commitment to growing its tourism mark et is commendable. Australia remains a close 
partner in expanding this sector through our private sector development programmes. In this 
regard, Australia invites Fiji to renegotiate the b ilateral Air Services Agreement with Australia, the 
provisions of which have now been exceeded by current passenger numbers between our two 
countries. 
4.28.  Our questions for this trade policy review reflect the strength of Australia interests in the Fiji 
market. We look forward to Fiji's resp onse during the course of the review. 
UNITED
 STATES 
4.29.  I’d like to begin by expressing the United States’ deepest condolences to everyone in Fiji 
affected by Tropical Cyclone Winston this past we ekend. The United States stands ready to support 
the Government of the Republic of Fiji in its resp onse to this disaster. The U.S. Office of Foreign 
Disaster Assistance is providing humanitarian aid for critical relief supplies and basic water, 
sanitation, and hygiene assistance. I understand a USAID disaster expert is already on the ground in Suva working with the Government to help conduct damage assessments, identify needs, and 
coordinate response efforts.  
4.30.  Though its population is less than one million, Fi ji’s relatively small size belies its important 
regional role. It is a key economic and commercial hub in the South Pacific, and a leader among the Polynesian island states. Its trade and econom ic policy decisions therefore have an important 
multiplier effect throughout the South Pacific region. In addition, no discussion of Fiji’s role in 
multilateral organizations like this one can neglect to mention Fiji’s record of strong commitment to participation in UN Peacekeeping operations. We are pleased to work with Fiji as an important 
player in the global community. 
4.31.  The years since Fiji’s last Trade Policy Review in 2009 have seen some critically important 
developments within Fiji. Most notably, a new constitution was introduced and democratic 
government restored in 2014. This is an important milestone for Fiji’s people. We have 
congratulated the people of Fiji on this import ant achievement, which paved the way for the full 
restoration of our historically close bilateral rela tions. One of the key challenges of the coming 
years will be to further strengthen democratic institutions and governance, and build on them to 
implement policies that will generate sustainable, broad-based growth and trade. 
4.32.  The Secretariat report notes Fiji’s solid growth of recent years and, in particular. an uptick in 
growth over the past three years compared to the preceding three. We agree that a basically 
sound economic policy framework has been implem ented, and commend the Fijian Government for 
the steps it has taken to restore growth after the 2009 recession. We note the evolution in Fiji’s 
goods and services trade, from one based principa lly on food and primary products exports, such 
as sugar and fish, to a more diversified array of exports, including services like tourism. We also 
note the growing diversification of Fiji’s trade part ners, on both the import and export side. We are 
pleased to see that since Fiji’s last Review, the Un ited States went from being Fiji’s fourth largest 
export market to its largest — which underscores the continued interest of the United States in 
deepening our trade ties with Fiji and being an im portant partner in Fiji’s development. The policy 
objectives for the coming decade set forth in the Fijian Trade Policy Framework announced last summer seem appropriate and reasonable ways to seek to deepen Fiji’s integration into the global 
economy and to increase the benefits to Fijians from international trade. 
4.33.  The Secretariat report notes that Fiji has been growing above its estimated potential rate for 
the last few years. Nonetheless, in addition to its chronic challenges of distance, small market size 
and natural disasters, Fiji continues to face numerous man-made bottlenecks and impediments to 
growth. If Fiji is to fully realize the economic ambitions of its citizens, and fully join the economic dynamism of the Pacific region , it will need to address these bottlenecks. As friends and 
international partners of Fiji, we should use this review to focus not just on the positive 
developments, of which there are many, but to highlight a few key issues that could potentially 
prevent Fiji from sustaining the positive trends of recent years. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 15 - 
 
  4.34.  To start, in order to deepen its integration in the global economy, we believe Fiji should 
focus not just on increased access to export markets but on removing impediments to competitive foreign products, which will both benefit Fiji and strengthen its key trade relationships. Fiji’s average applied tariff of over 11% (and average bound rate of 40%) remains rather high, 
particularly since Fiji’s regional trade agreements  cover only about 7% of Fijian imports. Fiji’s 
report for this review, highlighting the central role of Doha Development Agenda in its trade liberalization policy, was clearly written before the MC10, but it would be useful to hear how, 
following the outcomes of the Nairobi meeting, Fiji is planning to approach future tariff 
liberalization. In a world, and Pacific region, where countries are cutting tariffs, Fiji’s relatively high 
tariffs impose added costs on its people, and diminish its attractiveness as a trading partner. 
4.35.  Fiji could also benefit from more active participation in other WTO agreements. The 
Secretariat report notes that Fiji has not yet notified its Category A commitments under the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation. We strongly encourage Fiji to do so. This step is an important signal of commitment to the WTO system, but will  also help address customs and trade facilitation 
issues, which continue to add complexity to trading with Fiji. We also strongly encourage the full 
implementation of the single window concept, in consultation with trade stakeholders. 
4.36.  We would also encourage Fiji to give serious consideration to joining other WTO 
agreements. The Agreement on Government Pr ocurement would build on commitments to 
openness and transparency that Fiji has already implemented domestically, while also opening up 
new export opportunities for Fijian producers. The Information Technology Agreement would facilitate the development of information and communication industries, which Fiji’s National 
Export Strategy has identified as a priority sector. 
4.37.  The Secretariat report notes that the elimination of Fiji’s remaining exchange rate 
restrictions would strengthen the business climate and encourage more foreign investment. We 
would encourage Fiji to consider eliminating these restrictions.  We also note that unpredictable 
changes in tax policy, particularly those that appear to target key foreign investors, as has happened in the past, can take a serious toll on international perceptions of a nation’s investment 
climate. Finally, we note that elimination of tax loopholes would broaden the tax base, thus 
diminishing the importance of tariffs as a share of overall tax revenues, and offer scope for further trade liberalization. 
4.38.  Domestic regulatory reform would also he lp address bottlenecks. For example, U.S. 
stakeholders continue to note the lengthy process of obtaining Government approvals as a 
significant impediment to doing business in Fiji , while the World Bank’s Doing Business survey 
indicates that Fiji’s "starting a business" score is by far the worst of the ten component parts of 
Fiji’s overall score. It takes more than twice as many days to start a business in Fiji (58) as the 
East Asia and Pacific average (26). Streamlining th is process would facilitate trade, investment and 
growth. 
4.39.  Finally, greater stability in the labour situation would both make Fiji a more predictable 
business climate and strengthen ties with key partners. We are encouraged by a number of recent amendments to the Employment Relations Promulgation Act, both passed and proposed, particularly with respect to "essential national indu stries", and by indications of greater harmony in 
government-labour relations, and urge continued progress. 
4.40.  These recommendations are offered as a friend. Fiji’s performance of the past few years is 
much to be proud of. We hope to continue working in partnership with Fiji to further improve its 
trade and investment climate and sustain that strong performance in the years to come. 
GUATEMALA 4.41.  We too would like to take this opportunity to express our support for and solidarity with the 
Fijian people after the passage, at the end of last week, of Cyclone Winston, which caused 
significant material and human damage. We commend the Fijian authorities for taking immediate action to ensure the safety and security of the population in this emergency situation and trust that the country will promptly recover and resume its activities. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 16 - 
 
  4.42.  Guatemala and Fiji have maintained friendly relations over the years, as reflected by the 
close links forged in the Group of Small, Vulnerable Economies at the WTO. Despite the geographical distance between us, discussions within the Group have enabled us to identify more clearly what are the major characteristics and challenges common to our two countries and thus to 
combine efforts in seeking joint solutions. 
4.43.  As regards this review, it is important to und erscore Fiji's positive economic performance 
since its previous trade policy review in 2009. As stated in the report, after contracting in 2009 the 
country's real GDP growth rate averaged 3.5% annually between 2010 and 2014. Moreover, Fiji's 
authorities have sought to reduce the fiscal deficit, increase FDI inflows and promote in depth export diversification, as reflected in the National Export Strategy. We believe that all of these measures, together with major legislative reforms that included the adoption of a new Constitution 
and the enactment of new laws in areas such as competition, government procurement and 
agriculture, will help strengthen the Fijian economy and boost trade and foreign investment. 
4.44.  Among the challenges highlighted in the Secretariat report, it is worth emphasizing the 
importance for Fiji to continue looking into ways of strengthening its resilience to sudden changes 
in the global economy, enhancing its business climat e and improving its road network, so as to cut 
internal distribution costs. 
4.45.  Guatemala acknowledges Fiji's efforts over the period covered by this report and wishes the 
Fijian delegation a successful conclusion to its country's trade policy review. 
EUROPEAN
 UNION 
4.46.  I would like to start by welcoming the delegati on of Fiji, led by H.E. Mrs Nazhat Shameem 
Khan in this difficult moment where disaster and grief has once again struck your country. Our 
honest feelings and our sympathy are with you and the families of the victims that have been hit 
by the catastrophic cyclone Winston last weekend.   
4.47.  Fiji has performed well since its last review wi th an annual real GDP growth of 3.5% despite 
the impact of the financial crisis and of natural disasters and thanks also to the internal stabilisation succeeding the elections 2014 and the formation of the new Government. The 
perspectives for 2015 are set at 4.3%. This singles out Fiji in comparison with other small and 
vulnerable economies of the Pacific. Fiji's internal situation started to stabilize after the elections of September 2014 which led to the formation of the government now in charge of the country's trade and investment policies. Fiji has improved  its human development indicators and ranks 88th 
in the latest UNDP Human development Index. Even if many of the Fijian people continue to 
depend a lot on the sugar sector (about one qu arter of the population and 45% of the goods 
exports), efforts to diversify the economy have started to bear fruit. This is a priority that has 
been supported by the EU. However, obstacles are not minor, especially for a country that is 
composed of more than 300 islands with high transportation costs. 
4.48.  An important issue is Foreign Direct Investments where Fiji seems to score lower than 
international benchmarks. The WTO Secretariat noted that existing data bases and statistics could 
be improved in the area of investment but also in other domains, which would help the authorities to better document situations with the view to support policy-making in many areas. Among the factors that do contribute to improving investors' confidence, the most important ones are a 
country's political and economic stability as well as transparency, predictability and the rule of law. 
And a case in point in Fiji is the agriculture sector, an important area that was mentioned by the Secretariat, where there is a degree of uncertainty about land tenure. The EU would be welcome 
the authorities' views on this issue. 
4.49.  EU-Fiji trade relations take place in the framework of the Economic Partnership Agreement 
which is under provisional application. International trade (imports and exports) represents more 
than 120% of the country's GDP and the EU is an important trade and cooperation partner for Fiji. 
EU assistance to Fiji has resumed following the restoration of democracy and Fiji is eligible to the 11th European Development Fund. The cooperation covers areas such as public administration reform and governance as well as sustainable rural livelihoods and diversification of the economy. 
EU assistance amounts to €28 million for the period 2014-2020. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 17 - 
 
  4.50.  Fiji's trade is well integrated into Asia and the country has taken initiatives to strengthen its 
ties with the Pacific Island States. It also recently adopted a trade strategy for the period 2015-2025. Fiji in its report stresses its commitmen t to the multilateral trading system and to the 
WTO. The EU commends Fiji for having recently se t up of a mission to the WTO which we consider 
an illustration of the country's priority attached to the multilateral trading system. In this regard, 
the EU would welcome more information about Fiji's intentions regarding category "A"- commitments and the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.51.  In its advanced written questions, the EU has asked clarification on a few issues. I would 
like to use the opportunity of this first meetin g to enquire about the state of play of Fiji's 
compliance with the core ILO conventions. 
REPUBLIC
 OF KOREA 
4.52.  First of all, we would like to express our deepest sympathy for the severe damage from the 
recent tropical cyclone in Fiji. We wish Fiji a full recovery from the shock as soon as possible. With this as a backdrop, we would like to highlight that Fiji, as one of the most vulnerable countries to 
climate change, ratified the Paris Agreement under  the United Nations Framework Convention on 
Climate Change on 12 February 2016. We applaud Fiji for becoming the first country in the world to formally approve the Agreement which we believe would contribute to enhancing multilateral 
cooperation in stabilizing the increase in the global average temperature.  
4.53.  We are pleased to note that Korea and Fiji continue to maintain close economic ties and that 
the bilateral trade volume reached US$326 million in 2015. Korea hopes that its economic cooperation with Fiji will continue to grow and develop in the future. 
4.54.  Turning to Fiji’s overall economy, we wish to note that the Fijian economy is recovering after 
the growth rate declined to -1.4% in 2009 due to the global financial crisis. Specifically, the Fijian economy picked up between 2010 and 2014 with an  average growth rate of 3.5%, based on an 
open trade regime and structural reforms. With  macroeconomic stability being maintained and 
inflation kept under control, the GDP per capita has also continued to grow, reaching around US$4,000 in 2014. 
4.55.  Despite these positive achievements, there is room for Fiji to enhance its competitiveness. 
In particular, we would like to emphasize the importance of foreign investment for the development of the Fijian economy. As pointed out in the Secretariat report, Fiji’s FDI inflows have 
remained low by international standards. We believe that foreign investment will play a crucial role 
in overcoming major challenges facing Fiji including poor infrastructure, the small size of its 
economy and low productivity. Moreover, it would be advisable for Fiji to continue to take steps toward structural reform such as further trade and investment liberalization and measures to 
stimulate competition.  
4.56.  In this vein, we would like to touch upon some concerns over the drastic increase of 
aeronautical fees and charges imposed on airline companies operating at Nadi Airport.  
4.57.  Korean Air is the only company which operates a long distance route connecting Fiji with 
Korea and the world including Europe, China and the United States. We believe that it has contributed to boosting not only exchanges between Fiji and Korea but also the Fiji tourism industry with increased numbers of tourists from  around the globe. However, with the recent 
increase of fees and charges, the profitability of the Korean Air route, which is already in deficit, is 
expected to further decrease. Taking this into account, we encourage the Fijian government to reform its tax system in such a way that will further facilitate trade and promote investment. 
4.58.  It is our hope that Fiji will continue to actively participate in strengthening the WTO 
multilateral trading system. We also hope that Fiji will submit its Category A commitments and accept the Trade Facilitation Agreement as soon as possible. 
BRAZIL 
4.59.  At the outset, the Brazilian Government woul d like to express its deep sorrow for the 
deaths, displaced persons and the material damage  caused by the passage of Winston cyclone in WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 18 - 
 
  Fiji last week, and conveys its condolences and sy mpathy to the families of the victims, to the 
people and Government of Fiji. 
4.60.  In the recent years, Fiji’s economy has been averaging a growth of 3.5% a year, alongside 
with the increase of private consumption and in vestment. In 2015, growth is projected to be 
4.3%. This is a remarkable achievement. 
4.61.  We recognize the efforts in modernizing the econ omic public policy with the introduction of 
its first decade long Trade Policy Framework, launched last year. This new policy instrument will be 
a useful tool to boost GDP growth during the 2015-2025 period. 
4.62.  With respect to our bilateral relations, Brazil and Fiji celebrate this year the tenth 
anniversary of the establishment of our bilateral relations. In September 2011, the interim Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama visited Brasília to inaugurate the first Fijian diplomatic mission in 
Latin America. The following year we welcom ed Ambassador Cama Tuiloma who delivered his 
credentials to President Dilma Rousseff in February 2012.  
4.63.  In November 2013, Brazil and Fiji signed their first bilateral agreement, the "Agreement for 
Technical Cooperation". Our partnership prioritizes fisheries, production of sugar and ethanol, and 
the overall modernization of agricultural industries, including sustainability. Our bilateral trade remains very modest, but we are confident that it will improve in the future.  
4.64.  We have submitted a set of questions on Fiji’s participation in international instruments that 
deal with access to medicines and access to culture - and their relationship with intellectual property rights. We thank the delegation for the answers provided, which we have conveyed to our capital. Let me conclude by wishing the Fijian delegation a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
JAPAN 
4.65.  First of all, I would like to express my sincere condolences for the people affected by the 
disaster of the cyclone. 
4.66.  Needless to say, Fiji is an important economic partner in the Asia-Pacific region. Japan 
continues to be one of Fiji's largest donors, as well as one of the country's most important trade partners. 
4.67.  In addition to the economic aspect, historically we have also been important partners. We 
share not only geographical characteristics as island States embraced by the Pacific Ocean, but also similar challenges including natural disa sters, climate change and the achievement of 
sustainable development. 
4.68.  Japan will make continuous efforts to maintain and further develop the strong ties between 
us. 
4.69.  The reports by the Secretariat and by the Government note that the economy of Fiji has 
performed well since its second TPR in 2009. Furthermore, political stability following the return to 
parliamentary democracy is now improving investors' confidence in the Fijian business environment. Japan expects to see Fiji's sustainable economic growth under this political stability. 
4.70.  Fiji's positive economic performance has also been the result of structural reforms 
implemented in recent years, especially in the sugar cane industry. However, in order to unleash Fiji's potential economic growth, further reforms are necessary to remove the bottlenecks in the economy and improve the investment climate. 
4.71.  In regard to the previous example of the sugar industry, Fiji's national revitalizing strategy 
for the sugar cane industry, "the Sugar Cane Industry Action Plan", was formulated and has been successfully implemented by the Government. Fa rm productivity has been improving but the 
industry still needs more reforms. For example, without the introduction of reforms the imminent 
expiry in 2017 of the EU country-specific quotas for sugar imports from ACP countries would be 
sure to hit the Fijian sugar industry. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 19 - 
 
  4.72.  Japan expects Fiji to continue accelerating economic reforms. 
4.73.  Let me make some comments on Fiji's  trade policy and investment policy. 
4.74.  According to the Secretariat report, the "Fijian Trade Policy Framework" is now playing a 
central role in its economic policies. The "Framework", which was formulated by the agency, MITT, 
covers not only trade policy, but also a wide range of economic policies, including investment 
policies and human capital development policies. Japan commends this comprehensive economic framework and encourages the Government of Fi ji to thoroughly implement this framework. 
4.75.  In terms of RTAs, the framework has noted that the Government will facilitate Fiji's 
engagement in regional trade arrangements. Afte r the last Trade Policy Review, the IEPA between 
Fiji and the EU were entered into force. Besides th e IEPA, Fiji initiated negotiations on the Pacific 
Agreement on Close Economic Relations (PACER) in 2014. 
4.76.  Japan hopes that these RTAs will contribute to the trade liberalization under the multilateral 
trading system. 
4.77.  With regard to the WTO, the main objective of the "Framework" was to ratify the TF 
agreement by the end of 2015. However, we believe th at Fiji has not ratified the agreement so far. 
Fiji has not yet made the Category A notification either. We request Fiji to let us know the current situation of its internal procedures related to the TF agreement. 
4.78.  Now, let me make some brief comments on investment policy. 
4.79.  Overall, the Government of Fiji welcomes the FDI inflows. The Secretariat report notes that 
the "Framework" facilitates measures that attract foreign investment, especially into export-oriented sectors. As a matter of fact, Fiji has implemented several investment-stimulating 
measures since the last review. Elimination of the minimum investment requirement for foreign 
investors is one of the most important of those. Streamlining the registration process through the "Single Window Clearance" is important as well. We positively evaluate these improvements. 
4.80.  Nonetheless, we believe that there is still some room for improvement. For example, the 
latest World Bank "Doing Business" report notes that the Fijian business environment is not particularly good. Among other concerns, it noted that many time-consuming procedures are 
required to start a business in Fiji. 
4.81.  Furthermore, under the Foreign Investment Regulation 2013, among other restrictions, 
some investment activities are rese rved only for Fijian citizens.  
4.82.  We encourage Fiji to keep improving its business environment for foreign investors. 
4.83.  In conclusion, I would like to express our strong wish to deepen cooperation between Fiji 
and Japan. 
RUSSIAN
 FEDERATION 
4.84.  On behalf of the Russian delegation, let me express our deepest condolences as well as a 
word of support to the Ambassador, the delegation and the people of Fiji, as well as to the Government of Fiji in light of the recent devastating disaster. 
4.85.  Russia commends Fiji's recent progress in structural and economic reforms, which led to the 
creation of a business friendly environment and the growth of the private sector. We also would like to express support of Fiji's ongoing efforts to liberalize and diversify its economy in order to advance its participation in the world trade, irrespective of the difficulties it faces while achieving 
these targets. Therefore, we believe that the mu ltilateral trading system can play a fundamental 
role in assisting Fiji with the aforementioned challenges. 
4.86.  Consequently, the continuous growth of the Fijian economy with an average annual rate of 
3.5% demonstrates positive outcomes of the economic policies pursued by the authorities of Fiji. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 20 - 
 
  4.87.  We are pleased to confirm a positive trend in the trade and economic co-operation with Fiji. 
Although bilateral trade between Russia and Fiji demonstrates modest performance, reaching its high in 2014 with US$9.2 million, there remains a great potential for expansion. It is noteworthy that during the review period the official visit of the Prime Minister of Fiji to the Russian Federation 
took place for the first time in history of our bilateral relations. Both sides have agreed on 
elimination of respective visa regimes, cooperation in counteracting money laundering and on further intensification of economic and commercial ties. Among various business opportunities 
existing between the two countries we see a partic ular potential in energy and chemical sectors, 
transport and hydropower infrastructure, agriculture and fishing, tourism. 
4.88.  Prior to the review, Russia has submitted a number of questions regarding certain SPS and 
tariff measures. We thank the delegation of Fiji for the answers provided and we will consider 
them thoroughly. 
CHINA 4.89.  At the outset, I would like to express our deep  sympathy and condolences to the Fiji people 
especially to those who have lost their family members in this major disaster. Under the leadership 
of the Fiji's Government, the solidarity of the Fi jian people and the support from the international 
community, we wish success to rebuild your great Nation in short future. 
4.90.  We are pleased to see that during the revi ew period, the Fijian economy kept stable 
development, with its annual GDP growth rate  averaging 3.5% between 2010 and 2014, and 
overall deficit to GDP ratio reducing from 4.1% in 2009 to 1.9% in 2014. Meanwhile, it is also notable that high transportation costs, the small size of its economy, and the frequency of natural 
disasters continue to constitute bottleneck for Fiji's future economic growth. 
4.91.  In this regard, China appreciates the efforts made by Fiji to boost FDI inflows and improve 
its business environment, which will be conductive to its sustainable economic growth. The 
elimination of minimum investment requirement for foreign investors, and the creation of the 
"single window clearance" application system for investment registration process will undoubtedly facilitate and encourage foreign investment in the long run. 
4.92.  China and Fiji have enjoyed sound bilateral relation. Fiji is the first pacific island country to 
recognize the P.R. China, and Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Fiji in 2014 has bought our relationship to a new climax. 
4.93.  Since the last review, our economic cooperation has maintained a strong momentum. 
Bilateral trade increased by 241% from 2009 to 20 15, achieving an average annual growth rate of 
more than 20%. China and Fiji are now pursuing a preferential trading arrangement, hoping to 
bring our trade to a new height. China has become Fi ji's largest source of investment in 2014, with 
the stock of our investment reaching US$120 million by the end of that year. Over the past few 
years, the Export-Import (EXIM) Banks of China has always been one of the main finance providers in Fiji's infrastructure projects. We hope our bilateral economic cooperation will help to 
build on Fiji's competitiveness and contribute to its stable and sustainable development in the 
future. 
THAILAND 4.94.  We would like to join the others in extending our sincere condolences in light of the 
unfortunate and devastating impact caused by Cy clone Winston and we wish Fiji a full and quick 
recovery. 
4.95.  Thailand has a considerably modest trade with Fiji. In 2015, the trade value between 
Thailand and Fiji was US$59.69 million. With exports and imports valued at US$53.92 million and 
US$5.77 million, respectively. Thailand's main impo rts from Fiji include fr ozen fish and mineral 
water. While major exports consist of automobiles, plastic and articles, and rice. 
4.96.  Thailand would like to congratulate Fiji on its strong average annual economic growth of 
3.5% during 2010-14. We also commend Fiji for undertaking steps to improve its business environment, such as through the elimination of the minimum investment requirement for foreign WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 21 - 
 
  investors and the simplification of the investment registration process through the creation of the 
single window clearance application system. 
4.97.  Thailand also appreciates Fiji's other reform efforts, especially the enactment of new trade-
related laws in areas such as competition, government procurement, foreign investment, SPS 
measures, standards, agriculture, and the issuance  of new decree and regulations on fisheries to 
ensure sustainable management. 
4.98.  In this review, Thailand submitted several questions to Fiji, covering, among others, 
questions regarding SPS measures, the Fiji Sugar Corporation, and the fisheries sector. We look 
forward to Fiji's responses to our questions, an d will study them in detail with great interest. 
INDIA 4.99.  India is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives and widespread destruction of property 
caused by the tropical cyclone Winston, which stru ck Fiji over the weekend. In this regard, my 
delegation would like to fully associate itself with your message of sympathy and solidarity to the people and Government of Fiji  in this hour of need.  
4.100.  India and Fiji have enjoyed close partnership, underpinned by historic linkages. Our 
relations with Fiji are animated by our longstanding people to people connections, which provide an important link between our two countries. Ou r bilateral trade, though modest, has been 
expanding in recent years and it increased to over US$50 million last year. A number of Indian 
companies have invested in Fiji in diverse fields such as health, education, information technology and financial services. India has been a close development partner of Fiji and has undertaken capacity building, infrastructure development and technical assistance programs. We look forward 
to building on these initiatives and deepen our partnership with Fiji further.  
4.101.  We commend the Government of Fiji for successfully implementing ambitious economic 
reforms since 2007 to create conditions necessary for economic, business and social prosperity. 
The impact of these reforms started taking shape during the review period and resulted in the 
Fijian economy recovering strongly from the economic challenges of the past decade (2001 to 2009). 
4.102.  As brought out in the Secretariat report, since the last TPR in 2009, the economy of Fiji 
has performed well based on a relatively open trade regime, sound macroeconomic policies, and structural reforms. We commend Fiji for its economic performance since the last TPR, which is one of the best growth cycles since its independence. Fiji has managed to contain inflation to single 
digit levels during the review period, and has maintained high level of investment rates. We are 
very hopeful that the ambitious Fiji's first ever Trade Policy Framework for the period 2015 to 2025 would be effectively implemented and it would enable meaningful market access to Fijian growing 
industrial base and integrate Fijian economy into the global trading environment. All in all, as a 
result of several initiatives taken by Fiji and with the support of its international partners, we are confident that Fiji would gain meaningfully from its integration into the global economy to ensure 
prosperity and higher living standards for its peoples. 
4.103.  The Secretariat report has appropriately noted that Fiji's reliance on trade and tourism 
make it vulnerable to external shocks, while high transportation costs, the small size of its economy, and the susceptibility to natural disaster s also constrain its economic growth prospects. 
We encourage Fiji to continue with the economic  reform process to strengthen its resilience to 
these challenges, foster competitiveness, improve the investment climate, and thus sustaining high growth.  
4.104.  Finally, we welcome Fiji’s commitment to the multilateral trading system. Fiji opened its 
resident WTO Mission in Geneva in 2014. It has been a strong voice on behalf of the Pacific 
Islands, and has contributed immensely to the ongoing negotiations in order to ensure balanced, 
fair and equitable outcomes that fully addres s the concerns of small island economies.  WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 22 - 
 
  MAURITIUS 
4.105.  At the outset, we would wish to express our soli darity with the people of Fiji on the tragic 
loss of lives and the devastation caused by Cyclone Winston.  
4.106.  My delegation wishes to commend the active role being played by Fiji at the WTO in 
particular on the critical issues pertaining to the Small Island Developing States and the Small 
vulnerable economies in Geneva. 
4.107.  As SIDS we are terribly vulnerable and we have been drawing the international 
community’s attention that hard earned development gains made through laborious efforts and 
years of perseverance can be washed within minutes and hours through natural and manmade disasters. 
4.108.  Both Fiji and Mauritius share the same visi on of development, having moved from a 
mono-crop economy to services now playing a critical role in bolstering economic growth. We laud 
the Fijian Government’s aspiration to serve as a major hub in the region and the emphasis on the critical role to be played by the private se ctor and the MSMEs as major engines of growth. 
4.109.  This ambition and aspiration assumes significan t importance in the face of the challenges 
faced by many developed and developing countries in the lingering global economic crisis. In this context, the vulnerability of small islands is mo re pronounced to exogenous shocks and external 
factors. The current volatility in the global ma rkets is among one of the factors which seriously 
impact on the economies of SIDS.  
4.110.  We commend the Government of Fiji for the sound macroeconomic management of the 
economy, its sound trade policies and the inter-woven efforts in synchronising its domestic trade 
policies with regional and international trade initiatives. 
4.111.  Mauritius and Fiji are participating in the EPA Negotiations and we fully apprehend Fiji’s 
primary objectives of improving the Ease of Doing Business, improving investment promotion and 
facilitation and improving competitiveness which are also overarching priorities for Mauritius also. 
4.112.  We are confident that the Fiji authorities wo uld successfully implement its economic reform 
strategy, a path well known to Mauritius, for having taken similar bold measures to address 
inherent structural and international constraints. 
4.113.  Both Fiji and Mauritius, as small vulnerable economies and though from different regions, 
share the same importance of intra-regional trade and improved trade facilitation cooperation and coordination (measures) to enable further trad e flows between the countries in our respective 
region. 
4.114.  My delegation looks forward to working closely wi th the delegation of Fiji as we engage in 
an important year at the WTO to discuss the Post Nairobi framework with the overall objective of 
meaningful, fair and balanced outcomes for SVEs at the WTO. 
ARGENTINA 4.115.  First of all, we reiterate our sympathy and our solidarity with Fiji in the aftermath of 
Cyclone Winston. 
4.116.  Argentina notes with interest the development of Fiji's economy and trade. It should be 
emphasized that the economic and social cha llenges facing the country are considerable, 
particularly in view of the effects of the global  economic slowdown and the consequences of the 
natural disasters that affected the tourism sector, which is one of Fiji's major foreign exchange 
earners. 
4.117.  We therefore wish to underscore the efforts Fiji is making and the successes it has 
achieved in improving its human development indi cators, reducing the overall fiscal deficit, and 
stabilizing and developing its financial system. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 23 - 
 
  4.118.  Fiji's positive economic indicators since 2009,  with an average annual growth rate of close 
to 3.5%, are equally remarkable. The fact that there has been investment in significant development pillars such as infrastructure, health and education is also particularly noteworthy. 
4.119.  Furthermore, it is important to highlight Fiji's current initiatives in boosting and simplifying 
FDI inflows, and in implementing programmes such as the National Export Strategy. We would 
also like to mention the opening of Fiji's Permanent Mission in Geneva in 2014, in order to continue fostering the country's participation in the multilateral economic and trade sphere. 
4.120.  Lastly, we reiterate our appreciation of this renewed opportunity to exchange points of 
view and comments on the trade policies and prac tices of Fiji. We would like to draw attention 
once again to the importance of this exercise in  transparency from every point of view, and we 
wish the Fijian authorities a successful a conclusion to this review. 
BENIN 
4.121.  On behalf of the Beninese Government and people, the delegation of Benin wishes to 
express its solidarity with the Government and people of Fiji, which suffered loss of life and 
material damage when Cyclone Winston hit the islands on 21 February 2016. It wishes Fiji a 
speedy and robust recovery and reconstruction process. 
4.122.  The delegation of Benin commends Fiji for the range of reforms undertaken since 2009. 
4.123.  These reforms include: 
 an ambitious guiding document for trade policy;  
 the adoption of legislation to enhance good financial governance and public expenditure 
management; and 
 the review of financial in stitutions and the Procurement Regulations of 2010. 
4.124.  Since 2009, despite the 2008 2009 global financial crisis, these various reforms have 
enabled Fiji to record stable economic growth, wh ich stood at 5.3% in 2014 and at 4% in the third 
quarter of 2015. 
4.125.  Fiji's contribution to the Doha Round negotiations is worthy of mention.  
4.126.  The country's ongoing efforts to streamline and automate customs services and clearance 
procedures point to a decisive process aimed at trade facilitation and further integration of Fiji in 
the multilateral trading system. 
4.127.  Fiji is also actively involved in the regional economic and trade initiatives taken under 
various regional trade agreements, such as the revised Melanesian Spearhead Group Trade 
Agreement (MSGTA3), and the negotiation of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement 
with the European Union under the framework of the PACP configuration and the Pacific Closer 
Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) Agreement. 
4.128.  T h e  d e l e g a t i o n  o f  B e n i n  e n c o u r a g e s  F i j i  t o  pursue its ongoing efforts in the areas of 
economic and trade promotion as well as social development. 
4.129.  Our delegation wishes to take this opportunity to urge WTO Members and the international 
c o m m u n i t y  a s  a  w h o l e  t o  s u p p o r t  F i j i ' s  e n d e a v o u r s  to achieve full integration in regional and 
international value chains by building up its productive and trade capacities, and to address the constraints arising from its island location and the consequences of climate change. 
SINGAPORE 
4.130.  We would like to express our condolences to the victims of Cyclone Winston. As always, 
Singapore stands ready to help in any way possible.  WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 24 - 
 
  4.131.  Fiji has done well since its last TPR, bouncing back strongly from the global financial crisis, 
as evident in its solid average growth rate of 3.5% in recent years. We note also the positive measures taken by the Fijian Government to boost FDI inflows, such as the creation of a single window clearance process and in diversifying its economy. The introduction of Fiji’s Trade Policy 
Framework last July is also a welcome development.  
4.132.  In many ways, Singapore and Fiji are similar in that our economies are highly dependent 
on trade. For small countries like ours, a rules-based multilateral system is of particular 
importance and value. We are therefore especially delighted to see a permanent Fijian presence 
here at the WTO, with the opening of its Permanent Mission in Geneva in 2014. This reflects not only the importance Fiji is placing on the WTO, but also adds to the diversity of views that is much needed in international trade governance and policy making. While the Mission here is still fairly 
new, Fiji has already left its imprint by coordinating the ACP position on fisheries subsidies last 
year. We encourage Fiji to continue its active engagement in the WTO.  
4.133.  We would like to offer a few suggestions on how Fiji could better benefit from the 
multilateral trading system. First, we strongly encourage Fiji to ratify the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement as soon as possible. For a trade dependent economy such as Fiji, the TFA will improve trade flows, reduce trade costs, and help to better integrate Fiji into global value chains. We note 
that these were goals also reflected in Fiji’s Trade Policy Framework. Second, we hope Fiji will soon 
accept the Protocol of Amendment to the TRIPS Ag reement. This will be a valuable contribution 
towards the TRIPS and public health agenda, and would bring tremendous benefits to developing 
members including Fiji. Third, we encourage Fiji to consider participating in plurilateral agreements 
such as the Government Procurement Agreement,  the Information Technology Agreement and the 
Environmental Goods Agreement. For trade-dependent members such as Fiji, the liberalisation of trade in these sectors will help to boost trade flows, and reduce barriers for exporters. Finally, we 
note that Fiji still has a number of outstanding notifications. While we understand the challenges 
faced especially with regard to Fiji’s limited institutional and technical capacity, transparency is a core tenet of the WTO, and is essential to the healthy functioning of the multilateral trading 
system which all Members, including Fiji, benefit from.  
4.134.  As Fiji’s main source of merchandise imports, Singapore greatly values our trading and 
bilateral relationship with Fiji. We are pleased to hear that direct flights between Fiji and Singapore will commence this April, and are confident that will serve as a further boost to bilateral trade 
growth. Singapore stands ready to work with Fiji to deepen cooperation. In particular, we will be 
v e r y  h a p p y  t o  h e l p  a s  b e s t  w e  c a n  i n  s o m e  o f  t h e  a r e a s  i d e n t i f i e d  b y  F i j i  s u c h  a s  t h e  implementation of the TFA, as well as in addressing capacity issues through relevant technical 
assistance and training. 
BARBADOS 4.135.  We join other delegations in extending our thoughts and prayers to the Government and 
people of Fiji on the devastation that has been inflicted on the island with the passage of tropical 
Cyclone Winston. 
4.136.  This serves as a reminder to us and to the wider multilateral community that natural 
disasters, climate change and vulnerability for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like 
Barbados and Fiji are lived realities, which impact significantly on trade and investment gains and 
growth. Fiji, like other SIDS are challenged by the inherent characteristics of vulnerability to external shocks and smallness, including the lack  of competitiveness, a narrow production base, 
diseconomies of scale, susceptibility to natural disasters and high transportation costs due to 
remoteness from international markets. Although the initial assessments are yet to be completed, losses in the country's main revenue earning activities of sugar and tourism could be anticipated. 
4.137.  My delegation commends Fiji on a credible ec onomic performance over the review period 
despite the challenges of the global economic downturn, structural impediments and the impact of various natural disasters. The Government's implementation of strong macroeconomic policies and structural reforms resulted in a positive economic turnaround, which saw GDP growth of 4.7% 
growth in GDP in 2014, compared to the 1.4% contraction in 2009. During this period, the 
economy also benefited increased in revenues due to reforms in the collection of taxes. This translated to a decrease in the budget from 4.1% in 2009 to 0.5% in 2013. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 25 - 
 
  4.138.  The outlook for further the growth of the Fijian economic structure away from a 
d e p e n d e n c e  o n  t r a d i t i o n a l  s e c t o r s  a n d  m a r k e t s .  I n  t h i s  r e g a r d ,  w e  c o m m e n d  F i j i  o n  t h e  development and implementation of the Fijian  Trade Policy Framework which is aimed among 
other things, at transforming the country into a diversified, internationally competitive export and 
growth led economy, securing meaningful market access for Fijian products in bilateral, regional 
and multilateral arrangements, attracting foreign and domestic investment in export oriented sectors, and encouraging value-addition in the country's export offerings. 
4.139.  As a small economy which is highly dependent on international trade, it is crucial that the 
role which trade as a contribution factor can play  in the achievement of sustainable development. 
In this regard, we note that as a complement to the FTPF, Fiji has also put in place a National Export Strategy (NES) which is aimed at achieving sustainable growth through boosting exports, 
competitiveness, value adding, and export diversification in the six priority areas of agro-business, 
forestry, marine products, mineral water, inform ation and communication technologies (ICT), and 
audiovisual services. The Government's aim to assist micro, small and medium enterprises within 
the context of these prioritized sectors to address supply-side constraints is highly commendable. 
4.140.  Barbados has a cordial and friendly relationship with Fiji, through our work here in Geneva 
on issues related to Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and within the African Caribbean and 
Pacific (ACP) Group of States and the Small Vulnerable Economies (SVEs) Group and like Fiji, 
Barbados shares many of the inherent characteristics associated with smallness and vulnerability. 
4.141.  Since the establishment of its Mission in Geneva in 2014, Fiji has been consistent in 
reiterating its commitment to the multilateral trading system. We have consistently been reminded 
of this commitment through their participation in the WTO processes. This has been particularly 
demonstrated in the negotiations of the fisheries subsidies in the lead-up to and during the tenth WTO Ministerial Conference where they served as the ACP Group's focal point for this area. 
Barbados looks forward to continued work with Fiji in Geneva in the pursuit of our shared 
objectives. 
SOLOMON
 ISLANDS  ON BEHALF  OF THE PACIFIC  GROUP  MEMBERS  OF THE WTO 
4.142.  I make this statement on behalf of the Pacific Group Members of the World Trade 
Organisation (WTO), namely Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands. This will be followed by that of my  own delegation of Solomon Islands.  
4.143.  I wish to extend, first of all, on behalf of the Group our deepest sympathies to the 
Government and people of Fiji for the loss of live s and the extensive destruction caused by Cyclone 
Winston at the weekend. As fellow Pacific island members, we understand fully the impact of such 
devastations on the people and on the economy and we stand with you at this difficult time.   
4.144.  Permit me also the opportunity to acknowledge the delegation of the Government of Fiji led 
by H E Nazhat Khan, Ambassador of Fiji and to welcome in particular, the Members of the delegation that have travelled all the way from Fiji. The presence of the delegation, despite the 
disaster of the last weekend is testament to the hi gh priority that the Government of Fiji attaches 
to the WTO and to a successful Trade Policy Review. 
4.145.  The Pacific Group has considered the two reports that have been prepared for this Review. 
The Group notes the positive growth achieved and commends Fiji for the various reforms that it 
has undertaken during the period of the review which builds on the work of the two earlier 
reviews. Some of these reforms include: 
 the adoption in 2015 of a national Trade Polic y Framework that complements the existing 
National Export strategy;  
 the review of Investment Act and streamlini ng of the Investment approvals process;  
 reforms to sectoral policies such as in agriculture, maritime transport and 
telecommunications;  WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 26 - 
 
   as well as well as those reforms that foster an open, fair and stable business environment 
such as competition law, and consumer protection laws.  
4.146.  These reforms underline the importance to Fiji of a well-functioning, transparent and 
equitable rules-based multilateral trading system. Li ke other small island developing countries with 
a small share of world trade, are price-takers, ha ve small domestic markets and are dependent on 
a narrow range of exports, Fiji also depends on th e WTO rules that recognizes their vulnerability to 
external economic shocks and provides appropriate policy space for their development strategies. 
This policy space is now more important than ever before given the effects of natural disasters and 
climate change which subject Fiji and small island states to a continuous cycle of rebuilding our infrastructure and our productive sectors.   
4.147.  The Pacific Group further notes Fiji’s commitment to continuing the reform process in trade 
including on trade facilitation, the new tourism strategy and energy policy to reduce dependence 
on imported fossil fuels. The Group also stresses the importance of these reforms to be supported 
by adequate aid-for-trade resources. In this connection, the Group draws the attention of 
development partners to the challenges and assistance identified by Fiji on page 12 of its report to 
assist with implementation obligations of trade agreements, including the WTO trade facilitation agreement, address capacity constraints, institutional strengthening, promoting information 
technology and improving trade standards infrastructure.  
SOLOMON
 ISLANDS 
4.148.  At the outset, I also wish to register our deep condolence for the loss of lives and 
widespread destruction of properties and infrastr uctures caused by a devastating tropical cyclone 
Winston that struck Fiji islands over the weekend. 
4.149.  Solomon Islands stand by Fiji as it starts rebuilding process. 
4.150.  Since its last Trade Policy Review in 2009, Fiji has undertaken major reform agenda which 
resulted in positive growth to its economy. We noted that from 2010 to 2015, Fiji’s economy 
recorded consecutive growth with a remarkable gr owth rate of 5.3% in 2014, the highest it has 
achieved since 2001. 
4.151.  With the recent adoption of its national Trad e Policy Framework, Fiji now has an ambitious 
guiding policy document that ai ms to elevate trade development in core government's work 
programmes to create a conducive environment for investment and private sector development, in particular the SMEs. 
4.152.  Fiji is a major player in regional trade. Its trade regime is very liberal compare to some 
bigger economies. A number of sectors in the econ omy have performed well over the years, with 
tourism and agriculture, in particular, are the key sectors that contribute significantly to the 
economy and trade for Fiji. 
4.153.  Solomon Islands continue to be a close neighbour and trading partner with Fiji through 
Regional Trade Agreement such as the Melane sian Spearhead Group Trade Agreement (MSGTA) 
and the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA). 
4.154.  In concluding, I wish to highlight that notwithstanding the tremendous progress that Fiji 
made over the years in reforming and growing its economy, as a small island developing state, its vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters pause a greater risk to its development 
ambition because of the danger that decades wort h of development could be wiped out in a matter 
of day by natural disaster such as cyclone. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 27 - 
 
  H.E.  AMBASSADOR  KHAN,  HEAD  OF DELEGATION 
4.155.  I would, first of all, like to thank all the Members who have spoken this morning and who 
have provided both comments and recommendations. Please be assured that we will take into consideration those recommendations and comments and we will respond by Thursday to those 
that have been specifically posed to us. 
4.156.  I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for the supportive comments 
and the kind words that they have expressed in rela tion to Fiji's experience regarding the tropical 
Cyclone Winston. Our people are used to cyclones and they are resilient but there is no doubt at all 
that with every cyclone we experience, precious resources are taken away from one area of our 
economy and put into rehabilitation work. Of course, that is exactly what we are now going to experience. Sadly, cyclone Winston is not over, is now heading apparently towards Vanuatu and it 
is still categorised as a category 4 cyclone. Our hearts go out to other Pacific island countries 
which may be in harm's way. The reality of a small island developing state is that we need the international community, we need our international partnerships and we know that we need to 
work together to ensure that our trade and econom ic infrastructure is built back better and more 
resilient. And we may also need to delve into our trade policy toolbox to examine what we can do within the multilateral rules-based system to support our economic recovery. We look forward to 
working with the WTO to that effect. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 28 - 
 
  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF  FIJI AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS 
5.1.  I would like to sincerely thank all the delegations that have contributed to Fiji’s Third Trade 
Policy Review through questions, acknowledgements and recommendations. We thank all those Members who have acknowledged the positive econom ic growth sustained by Fiji in the period 
under review, even during and after the global economic crisis. We also appreciate the 
acknowledgement that this has been made possibl e by the trade and economic reform undertaken 
by Fiji, underpinned by the 2013 Fijian Constituti on, and further supported by the Fijian Trade 
Policy Framework launched in 2015. 
5.2.  We would like to renew our commitment to continue implementing all the recommendations 
in the Trade Policy Framework in order to realize developmental objectives and aspirations. This is our primary reference point guiding our engagements at the multilateral level and will assist in 
facilitating our further integration into the multilateral trading system and participation in the WTO 
process in a coordinated manner. 
5.3.  A number of the comments and recommendations made on Tuesday related to issues also 
identified in the advance questions, and detaile d responses have been provided through written 
responses. We have also answered in writing a coup le of additional questions that were included in 
the statements of Members on Tuesday. Notwiths tanding these written responses, allow me to 
take this opportunity to address and highlight ou r approach on some of the issues that were 
common threads in many of the interventions on Tuesday.  
5.4.  With regards to the ratification of the WT O Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and the 
notification of the category A commitment, the process that Fiji has outlined in terms of finalizing 
the national needs assessment and categorisati on process in the second quarter of 2015, 
validating all commitments in relevant category, reporting to Cabinet and putting the ratification of the TFA to Parliament is a comprehensive process. Once completed, hopefully in 2016, Fiji will be 
able to notify not just its commitments in Category A, but also those in Categories B and C.  
5.5.  In terms of streamlining and improving foreign investments regimes in Fiji, we are in the 
process of reviewing the Investment Act and associated regulations in order to create a policy 
which attracts investors in the key identified sectors of the economy.  
5.6.  We have spoken already to the efforts at creating a "Single Window Clearance System", 
aimed at creating efficiency in registration of investment projects in Fiji that would enable multiple service delivery for investors for both registrati on and payments, and the plans to expand such 
e-Services to additional agencies known as tier 2 agencies. We hope that this will be rolled out by 
the end of 2016, and will work with relevant st akeholders and investors to work out any kinks 
identified during the roll out. The expectation is that processing time for investments and business 
start-up, which have been identified by Members as a bottleneck area, will be greatly improved as 
a result. The Client Relationship Management (CRM) system is also being developed to monitor our process, also the time taken to achieve a task, and the work completed for each customer. All of 
this will further allow for collection and dissemi nation of data to aid our investment policy. 
5.7.  With regards to investment activities in the reserved and the restricted categories, these 
measures are designed to ensure that there is eq u a l i t y  i n  t e r m s  o f  o p p o r t u n i t i e s  a s  w e l l  a s  t o  
promote participation of locals in the business and economic development of Fiji. In line with the 
Fiji Trade Policy Framework (FTPF), the list of reserv ed and restricted activities will be reviewed to 
ensure that they are consistent with the objective of the FTPF as well as consistent with Government’s wider economic and social objectives. We note and agree that such reviews should 
be done in a manner so as to allow investor predic tability. However, we also note that the majority 
of the activities in these categories are small scale business types which do not generally attract foreign investment.  
5.8.  Some delegations raised the issue of a large difference between bound and applied tariff 
rates. Fiji has as an open and liberal tariff po licy whereby Fiji has autonomously reduced applied 
rates on goods. The tariff bands applied have been realigned to provide greater predictability and to account for changes in the administration of imports, in particular of raw materials and capital 
goods. However, it is necessary for Fiji to retain the ability to raise applied rates up to the ceiling WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 29 - 
 
  of the relevant bound rates in order to respond to external shocks and vulnerabilities to external 
trading factors, and this policy tool is not one that we intend to relinquish. 
5.9.  Fiji fully understands the benefits of, and is positively inclined to undertake the necessary 
domestic procedures through Cabinet and Parliament in order to deposit the instrument of 
acceptance of the protocol amending the TRIPS Agreement. Mindful of the heavy legislative reform 
agenda that the Government is addressing, and th e pressures on Parliament accordingly, we aim 
to table the amendment in Cabinet and Parliament within this calendar year. 
5.10.  The Fijian Government is currently working with the World Intellectual Property Organization 
(WIPO) to review its intellectual property laws to ensure that they are in conformity with the TRIPS Agreement. Such review will strengthen existing intellectual property rights, and will pass through 
the normal parliamentary process. Fiji knows that it has much work to do in this area, and will 
seek the necessary expertise from the internatio nal community where such needs are identified. 
5.11.  Another important aspect that was noted during the first day relates to having consideration 
to enter any of the plurilateral agreements. In this regard, Fiji has focused its limited resources on 
the multilateral process at the WTO, and has not been in a position thus far to enter into any of 
the plurilateral agreements already concluded by other parties. Given the period of reflection that the WTO is in now with regard to the multilateral track of negotiations, now may well be the time 
for Fiji to examine the plurilateral agreements  to examine them against Fiji’s needs and to 
consider joining those that may serve Fiji’s interest and be within Fiji’s capacity to implement.  
5.12.  One area of crucial national interest is the nexus between trade and environment. We are a 
frontline country when it comes to climate change, and this is reflected in the fact noted by some 
Members on Tuesday that Fiji has become the first country in the world to ratify the Paris 
Agreement. In that context, and in response to those who have asked questions relating to 
reducing reliance on fossil fuels, Fiji has a clear Green Growth Strategy which has elaborated the 
target for renewable energy share in electricity gene ration in Fiji to approach 100% by 2030. Fiji’s 
target will be to completely replace fossil fuels as the energy source for electricity generation by renewable energy sources such as hydro, wind and solar. To achieve such a target by 2030, 
energy sources will be diversified, and supportive policies will be introduced progressively. 
However, for Fiji, this is by no means the only tr ade and environment issue of interest in the WTO. 
We have not engaged actively in the CTE’s work on environmental goods. However, we have and 
will continue to advocate for a clear path for negotiations to eliminate harmful fisheries subsidies, 
including fuel subsidies that are trade disruptive  and deeply damaging of our oceanic resources, 
which are part of the global commons.  
5.13.  We have been asked a follow-up question by Japan regarding discrepancies between big eye 
tuna catch volume and export volume to Japan. We will be providing a written response to this 
follow-up question, but given the importance of the sustainability of our fisheries resource to Fiji, 
allow me to reassure the Japanese delegation that this seeming discrepancy is most likely a result 
of differences in classification of imports and originating fish and subsequent classification upon 
export as re-exports. At the point of landing, even  fish landed by Fiji flagged vessels, but caught 
outside of Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone, are classi fied as imported fish. Accordingly, upon export, 
inter alia to Japan, such fish are classified as re-exports rather than Fijian domestic exports. 
Accordingly, it is possible that although the stat istical document upon import to Japan shows that 
the fish was caught by a Fiji flagged vessel, it was not classified as a Fijian domestic export by agencies in Fiji reporting to WCPFC. Thus, the discrepancy which Fijian authorities are seized of 
and are working to resolve should not be seen as reflecting or raising suspicion of IUU fisheries. 
Fiji’s original written response to Japan articulated the many measures in place to prevent any IUU fisheries, prevention of which is a clear priority for Fiji. 
5.14.  Fiji remains committed to maintaining an open economy and we reaffirm Fiji’s commitment 
to the rules-based multilateral trading system. We will continue to participate at the WTO through the group of Small Vulnerable Economies and the AC P to pursue our interests of developing trade 
rules that support sustainable development, poverty alleviation and wealth creation. As our 
Minister said at the Nairobi Ministerial Conference, we do not trade for trade itself – it is a means 
to achieve the development we need. We will therefore continue to be one of the voices advocating for negotiations that are premised on the need to include all Members in the wealth 
creation that improved trade rules can offer. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 30 - 
 
  CHAIRPERSON 
5.15.  I thank Ambassador Khan for her statement which has answered many of the questions and 
has informed us about a very important aspect of the green growth strategy of Fiji. Producing electricity only from renewable sources is very important for all our efforts in relation to climate 
change and for the idea to look into some plurilat eral agreements during the period of reflection. 
This is good news but I hope the period of reflection in the WTO won't last so long this year.  
DISCUSSANT 
5.16.  I wish, firstly to extend warm thanks to Ambassador Khan and her team, to all the 
delegations that participated in this review, to you, Mr. Chairman, and to the Secretariat for their hard work throughout this exercise.   
5.17.  As in 2009, Members expressed continued interest in many areas. I won’t go over all the 
areas I covered in my opening remarks, but I am sati sfied that Fiji diligently provided much useful 
information in response to comments made and to questions posed. 
5.18.  Members clearly recognized that there has been palpable progress on many issues since 
2009. Overall, we heard positive comments about Fiji’s trade regime, how its relative openness 
and the government’s macroeconomic policies and structural reforms have resulted in positive economic performance since 2009 with strong real GDP growth, relatively low inflation, and a 
declining budget deficit. 
5.19.  Fiji was able to point to advances and report on its efforts to liberalize customs procedures, 
its FDI regime, and to create a business-friendly environment, responding to concerns expressed particularly regarding sectors with reserved or restricted access. Fiji was also responsive to 
Members concerns over levels of notifications in several areas, and provided clarifications 
regarding the application of measures of special interest to various Members. 
5.20.  Fiji was asked about, and provided responses to several other matters, such as: 
a. Fiji’s vision and plans regarding the Trade Facilitation Agreement, the TRIPS Agreement 
Amendment, and the WTO plurilateral agreements;  
b. information on fisheries policies particularly regarding competition, exports statistics, and 
reporting to international bodies; 
c. details regarding plans to promote production an d export of agricultural products that meet 
the standards of international markets, clarification of notified measures, importation requirements and procedures, and their application; 
d. steps foreseen to promote awareness of the new competition law and policy, including issues 
related to price controls, and sectors of special importance; 
e. preferential treatment for, and potential privatization of STEs; 
f. efficiency, access and transparency in government procurement; 
g. tariff rates and AVEs on certain products that were of concern to Members; and 
h. sustainable energy and fishery policies, among others. 
5.21.  Fiji also reaffirmed its commitment to a rules-based multilateral trading system, and to 
substantial and meaningful negotiation outcomes that support sustainable development, poverty alleviation and wealth creation for all WTO Members. 
5.22.  Members recognized the importance of the new Constitution of 2013, of the successful 
democratic parliamentary elections in 2014, and the formulation of important policy documents, 
including the Trade Policy Framework (TPF). The TPF demonstrates a desire to address WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 31 - 
 
  trade-related issues, but takes into account also many other topics which are essential for stable 
and sustainable economic growth, including specific headings on land reform, labour, gender, health and anti-corruption measures. 
5.23.  Members praised the opening of Fiji’s Mission in Geneva, the role the delegation has played 
in support of the MTS, and which it will play in the MTS’ continuing evolution. The activity shown 
during the last two days, despite the reduced de legation and logistical difficulties, has been 
another proof of Fiji’s dedication to the transparency process. 
5.24.  I believe the work over the last few months and days has resulted in a useful and fruitful 
exchange, characterized by open and constructive engagement. There is some follow-up left to do regarding some questions but not too much. I trust also that Fiji will continue to refer to the results of this review when mapping its future trade links, whether by land, air, sea, or 
cyberspace. 
5.25.  W e  h a v e  a l s o  h a d  a  b r a c i n g  r e m i n d e r  o f  t h e  c h a l l e n g e s  F i j i  f a c e s  i n  t h e  f o r m  o f  t h e  
devastation and death brought by cyclone Winston. Moving ahead often means recovering sudden, 
costly, and often painful loss of ground. The sustainability of efforts and gains is not always under 
our control, and special circumstances may require heroic responses and a matching vision to make sure trade-related measures are understood as part of a much larger human picture. 
5.26.  I am sorry that the Honourable Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism was unable to join 
us, due to the current state of emergency in Fiji  due to cyclone Winston. However, I wish once 
again to extend my sincerest condolences to your people and Government, and wishes for a prompt return to something close to normality.   
5.27.  I want to thank everyone for another productive and useful review. And wish everybody 
from out of town a very happy return. 
CHAIRPERSON 
5.28.  I thank Ambassador Suescum for his statement and, of course, I note with great interest his 
proposal that Fiji develops its trade links throug h many means including cyberspace. His role in the 
General Council on E-Commerce will be crucial for the work in the WTO on this type of issues and I 
hope that it will be a useful role for all of us and for Fiji as well. 
EUROPEAN
 UNION 
5.29.  The EU would just like to thank the delegation of Fiji for the comprehensive replies provided 
to our advance written questions as well as the repl ies we received just yesterday to issues raised 
in our EU statement, notably on the land tenure an d Fiji's compliance with core ILO conventions. 
We would like to express our gratitude for that and congratulate you for this successful Trade Policy Review. 
UNITED
 STATES 
5.30.  Thank you Ambassador Khan and also thank you to the Fijian delegation. We appreciated 
the thorough responses to our advance written ques tions and, as a result, we have no follow-up 
written questions. We also express appreciation for the direct and informative responses to the 
comments that were raised on Tuesday. I reiterate the United States' commitment to stand with Fiji as it recovers from the devastation of Cyclone Winston. 
JAPAN 
5.31.  I really appreciated the comprehensive explan ation about the concerns and questions which 
I posed on Tuesday. Also, Japan really apprecia ted the detailed explanation about the statistic 
discrepancy about fishery. I will consult with Tokyo  about today's explanation as soon as possible. 
This third Trade Policy review for Fiji has been very  fruitful and we congratulate Fiji's delegation. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 32 - 
 
  NEW  ZEALAND 
5.32.  Thank you to the delegation of Fiji for the co mprehensive responses that they provided to 
our questions and for the great interaction we had during this TPR. We know that you have reasons to have your minds elsewhere this week so we really appreciate the fact that we had such 
a good collaboration and we congratulate you for this very successful TPR. WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 33 - 
 
  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
6.1.  The third Trade Policy Review of Fiji has offered us an excellent opportunity to learn about 
the trade, economic, and investment policies of Fiji since its previous Review in 2009, and the 
challenges it faces. Our discussion was greatly fac ilitated by the statements from the head of the 
delegation of Fiji, H.E. Ambassador Nazhat Sham eem Khan, Permanent Representative of Fiji to 
the WTO, by the insightful comments from the discussant, H.E. Mr. Alfredo Suescum, Ambassador 
of Panama to the WTO, and by the enriching interv entions by Members. Fiji's timely response to 
written questions has been highly appreciated by Members, and we look forward to answers to any 
outstanding questions no later than one month after this meeting. 
6.2.  Fiji was praised for its good economic performance over the last few years and for its sound 
macroeconomic policies that underpinned one of the best GDP growth cycles since its 
independence and declining overall poverty levels, even though progress in rural areas is lagging. 
Members noted that Fiji is a small economy, high ly dependent on exports of certain commodities 
and vulnerable to external shocks, while high tr ansportation costs and the frequency of natural 
disasters, such as last week's cyclone that hit the country, also constrain its economic outlook. 
Therefore, delegations encouraged Fiji to persever e with the implementation of structural reforms, 
especially in the areas of physical infrastructure and human resources development, to strengthen 
its resilience to shocks, reduce bottlenecks in  the economy, foster productivity, improve the 
investment climate, diversify its exports, and raise potential GDP growth. Some Members underlined their commitment to continue providing trade-related assistance to Fiji and of course 
any possible help in overcoming the effects of cyclone Winston. 
6.3.  Members commended Fiji for becoming the first country to ratify the UN climate treaty 
agreed in Paris in December 2015, and for its strong commitment to the multilateral trading 
system. Specifically, they noted that Fiji opened  a Permanent Mission in Geneva in June 2014 to 
more actively participate in the WTO. Fiji was encouraged to submit its outstanding WTO 
notifications, in particular its Category A commitments under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. Fiji indicated that it expects to ratify the Agreem ent in 2016. Members also took note of Fiji's 
engagement in four overlapping regional tr ade agreements, encompassing 41 partners.  
6.4.  Members welcomed the entry into force of Fiji 's new Constitution in September 2013 and the 
measures taken to bring its legislative framework in line with international best practices in areas such as competition, government procurement,  foreign investment, SPS measures, standards, 
agriculture, and shipping. They noticed the steps ta ken by Fiji to boost FDI inflows and improve its 
business environment, notably by eliminating the minimum investment required for foreign investors. While recognizing Fiji's various econom ic and trade policy reforms adopted over the last 
few years, some Members voiced concerns with respect to the difference that exists between the 
overall bound average of 40.2% and Fiji's applied MFN tariff of 11.2% in 2015, and the fact that only half of all tariff lines are bound. They urged Fiji to make improvements in this area and render 
its trade regime more transparent and predictable. Fiji was also urged to eliminate remaining 
foreign exchange restrictions, and to continue streamlining procedures for doing business. 
6.5.  Questions were also raised about the application of different excise duty rates on domestic 
and imported goods; the requirements for obtainin g quarantine import permits for animal products 
and of other SPS measures; the rationale for the use of price controls; and the enforcement of 
IPRs, in particular copyrights. Regarding sectoral policies, Members asked questions about the restructuring of the sugar industry and the situat ion of land tenure; the sustainable management 
of fisheries; the use of local content requirements  in cigarette manufacturing; the restructuring of 
the Fiji Electricity Authority and the granting of domestic subsidies to fossil fuels. In the area of services, some Members expressed concerns about recent increases in airport and port fees and 
charges and their impact on Fiji's international competitiveness. Further clarification was also 
sought on licensing requirements for telecommunication operators, and on the direction of Fiji's new development plan for the tourism sector.  
6.6.  Fiji provided an overview of reforms envisa ged in its Trade Policy Framework 2015-2025 and 
National Export Strategy to achieve sustainable growth by encouraging exports, competitiveness, 
value adding, and export diversification in six priority areas: agro-business, forestry, marine products, mineral water, information and communication technologies, and audiovisual services. 
Members welcomed this initiative, including its human and social objectives, and encouraged Fiji to 
effectively implement its first ever Trade Policy Framework.  WT/TPR/M/330 • Fiji 
 
- 34 - 
 
  6.7.  The third Review of Fiji's trade policies has been concluded successfully to the benefit of all 
the Membership. Members' active participation in this exercise has shown the importance they attach to Fiji's trade and related policies and its role in the multilateral trading system.  
6.8.  In closing, I would like to thank H.E. Ambassador Nazhat Shameem Khan, Permanent 
Representative of Fiji to the WTO, the rest of th e Fijian delegation, all the other delegations, the 
Discussant and the Secretariat for the very positive and active contribution to the third Trade Policy Review of Fiji. 
__________