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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
*In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
FIJI 
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 19 AND 21 JULY 2023  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later than  
21 August  2023. 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
FIDJI 
PROJET DE COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 19 ET 21 JUILLET 2023  
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 21 août 2023 au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
FIJI 
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 19 Y 21 DE JULIO DE 2023  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , 
o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 21 de agosto  de 2023 las correcciones fácticas que deseen 
introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
_______________  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
FIJI 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel  (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF FIJI  ................................ .............  5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  9 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  13 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF FIJI AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ................  38 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  45 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Fiji are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/444/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The fourth Trade Policy Review of Fiji was held on 19 and 21  July 2023. The Chairperson, 
H.E. Mr Saqer  Abdullah  Almoqbel (Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia) welcomed the delegation of Fiji, headed 
by the Honourable Mr  Manoa  Seru Kamikamica , Deputy Prime  Minister and Minister for Trade, 
Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications ; H.E. Ambassador Luke Daunivalu , Permanent 
Representative of Fiji to the WTO; the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, H.E. Ambassador 
George  Mina (Australia) . 
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the In terprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership.  Members 
were informed that, in agreement with Fiji, participants to the Advanced Trade Policy Course would 
attend the Review meeting.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The Report by Fiji is contained in document WT/TPR/G/ 444, and that of the WTO Secretariat 
in document WT/TPR/S/ 444. 
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadli ne: 
United  Kingdom, Chinese  Taipei, Australia, Brazil, New  Zealand, Costa  Rica, China, European  Union, 
and Singapore . The following delegations submitted written questions after the deadline:  
United  States, Dominican  Republic, Argentina, Canada, Iceland.  
1.5.  The Chairperson first recalled some elements of the Fiji's previous Review and developments 
since then, as well as by identif ied some key issues arising from the advance written questions 
submitted by Members for this TPR.  
1.6.  At the time of Fiji's previous Re view in 2016, Members praised Fiji for its remarkable economic 
performance, and for its sound macroeconomic policies that underpinned a solid GDP growth. They 
welcomed various steps undertaken by Fiji to further improve its business environment, facilitate  
foreign participation in the economy, with a view to attracting foreign investment. Members also 
praised Fiji's efforts to modernize wide -ranging aspects of its trade and related policies in areas such 
as competition, government procurement, foreign inves tment, SPS measures, standards and 
agriculture. They took note of the significant risks posed by climate change to Fiji's economic and 
social development.  
1.7.  During  Fiji's previous Review, while Members were appreciative of its positive economic 
outcomes and  numerous reforms, some raised concerns regarding the gap between applied MFN 
and bound tariff rates, together with a relatively low number of bound tariff lines. Fiji was encouraged 
to address this issue in order to increase the transparency and predictab ility of its trade regime.  
1.8.  The Chairperson focused on the developments since Fiji's last Review. During the period under 
review, Fiji continued to implement strategic measures geared at strengthening its economy and 
consolidating its resilience in the face  of the numerous climate -related and other structural 
challenges. In recent years, Fiji's economic performance was undermined by various shocks. 
In 2016, Fiji was struck by a cyclone which led to production losses and destruction of physical 
infrastructure . The COVID -19 pandemic and its restrictive measures also led to a significant GDP 
contraction in 2020 and 2021.  
1.9.  Fiji's current long and medium terms vision attaches a significant importance to environmental 
sustainability. It also considers women empowerm ent and the promotion of micro, small and 
medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs) as a favoured way to promote inclusive growth and broaden 
Fiji's economic base.  
1.10.   Various investment -related measures were implemented by Fiji with a view to attracting 
investments i nto sectors with high export potential. In particular, the adoption and implementation 
of the Investment Act in 2021 eliminated certain registration and screening requirements. The Act 
also provides for foreign investment restrictions by the means of reser ved and restricted activities, 
on which Members wanted more clarification.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  1.11.   As highlighted in the advance written questions, several trade and investment measures were 
of great interest to Members. In particular, they sought clarification on specific initi atives to further 
improve foreign investment framework, and actions envisaged by Fiji to ensure the predictability of 
its trade regime through tariff binding.  
1.12.   Questions were also raised regarding notification of trade -related measures, WTO 
participation, imports control, SPS regulations, customs issues, government procurement, 
intellectual property rights, sectoral policies, measures to promote environmental sustainability and 
digital economy.  
1.13.   In total, Fiji received over 169  advance written questions from  14 delegations for th e current 
Review, out of which 92  questions from 9  delegations were sent within the established deadline. 
Prior to th e meeting, Fiji already provided written replies to all questions submitted within the 
established deadline.  
1.14.   The meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilatera l trading system. The Chairperson l ooked 
forward to a fruitful exchange.  
1.15.   The Chairperson closed his introductory remarks by wishing Fiji a very successful fourth  Trade 
Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF FIJI (THE HONOURABLE  MR MANO A 
SERU KAMIKAMICA ) 
2.1.  Chair, H.E.  Mr Saqer Abdulla h Almoqbel, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 's Permanent Representative 
to the WTO ; discussant , H.E.  Mr George  Mina, Australian Permanent Representative to the WTO,  
Excellencies,  WTO Secretariat,  Ladies and Gentlemen .  
2.2.  Bula Vinaka  and good morning to you all.  I bring warm greetings from the Government and 
people of my country Fiji. It is a pleasure to be here at the World Trade Organi zation.  
2.3.  The Fiji Government welcomes the fourth  Review of Fiji 's trade policy by the WT O, and I am 
pleased to be here today to present and discuss Fiji's trade and investment policies and our future 
development aspirations.  
2.4.  As Fiji 's Minister for Trade and Deputy Prime  Minister, on behalf of Fiji and its people, I extend 
warm greetings and s incere gratitude to engage in this crucial dialogue that underpins the very 
essence of our nation 's economic growth and prosperity.  
2.5.  At the outset, I would like to acknowledge the WTO Secretariat for the comprehensive Report. 
I would like to also thank H .E. Ambassador George  Mina of Australia for taking up the role of the 
discussant for Fiji 's Trade Policy Review.  
2.6.  Fiji has provided written responses to all the advanced written questions, as well as those 
questions that were submitted past the deadline. We received over 100  questions and we attempted 
to answer them all in a short space of time. We thank all the WTO Members for their insightful and 
constructive questions, as well as their engagement throughout this process, including your presenc e 
here today.  
2.7.  Trade has long been the lifeblood of Fiji's economic growth and development, ingrained deeply 
within the fabric of our society. From the fertile fields of our farmers to the skilled hands of our 
artisans, from the creativity of our entreprene urs to the inviting warmth of our hospitality industry, 
Fiji's trade landscape blossoms, driven by a collective determination to connect with the world and 
showcase the richness of our culture and products. It is through trade that we expand horizons, 
open new opportunities, and foster innovation.  
2.8.  Our dependence on international trade is not merely a choice. It is a necessity shaped by the 
unique geographic, demographic, and economic factors that characteri ze Fiji. With a relatively small 
yet vibrant domest ic market, we understand that our pathway to progress lies in our ability to 
embrace global connections, harnessing the potential of international trade and supply chains to fuel 
our economy and uplift the livelihoods of our people.  
2.9.  This is why Fiji acknow ledges the critical role of the WTO in facilitating a rules -based, 
transparent and equitable global trading system. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected 
world, the WTO remains instrumental in ensuring that all nations, regardless of size, can part icipate 
in international trade on fair and just terms. This is why we need a strong rules -based multilateral 
trading system.  
2.10.   As we embark on the Review of our trade policy, we look forward to engaging with all the 
WTO Members in the spirit of cooperation, with the hope that this review will be an opportunity to 
strengthen Fiji 's trade and economic policy and in the process create a stronger, fairer,  and more 
prosperous global trading environment for all.  
2.11.   Those that were present during Fiji 's last Trade Policy Review in February  2016, would recall 
that during the presentation in this very chamber, Fiji was in the grips of the strongest tropical 
cyclon e ever to make landfall in the Southern Hemisphere. Tropical Cyclone Winston, a Category  5 
cyclone, caused extensive and widespread destruction to our homes, schools, hospitals, and critical 
infrastructure, costing us about one third of our gross domestic product (GDP).  
2.12.   Since our last Review, Fiji has encountered even more frequent cyclones and floods that have 
tested the resilience of our economy and our people. Climate change remains a formidable 
adversary, with cyclones and hurricanes of increased freque ncy and intensity wreaking havoc on our WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  infrastructure and agriculture, hindering our economic progress. Our experience with natural 
disasters and climate change has served as a stark reminder of the importance of integrating climate 
resilience into our tr ade policies.  
2.13.   The COVID -19 pandemic further exacerbated these challenges, posing unparalleled health 
and economic crises for our nation and our citizens. The pandemic, apart from bringing suffering, 
shut down our tourism sector and as a result our economy endured one of the highest contractions 
of GDP in the world.  
2.14.   With the new Government taking office in December last year, Fiji is well on the path of 
recovery. Our economy grew by 18.6% last year and a further 8% this year and is forecasted to 
continue on the growth path by 3.8% next year, despite global challenges of dampened growth in 
our major trading partners and continuing crisis plaguing the world economy.  
2.15.   One of the most pressing obstacles we are confronted with in international trade is the 
escalati ng impact of non -tariff barriers faced by Fijian traders. These barriers impede the smooth 
flow of goods and services, disproportionately affecting the livelihoods of our communities engaged 
in trade. Addressing these issues is crucial for Fiji, to ensure fair and equitable participation in the 
global marketplace.  
2.16.   In the face of these adversities, Fiji remains steadfast in its commitment to formulating robust 
policies and strategies to navigate the complexities of global trade. As part of our economic 
diversification agenda, we are supporting industries that have proven to be resilient during the 
COVID -19 crisis.  
2.17.   Apart from tourism, there is intense focus by the Fiji Government on renewable energy, green 
and blue solutions such as recycling, commercial agric ulture and aquaculture with strategic local or 
foreign investors, manufacturing especially in renewable spaces and niche products, the fast -growing 
BPO sector, education and ICT/data warehousing opportunities.  
2.18.   To address the rising challenges of non -tariff barriers, Fiji is engaging in constructive dialogue 
and collaboration with our trade and economic partners, seeking mutually beneficial solutions that 
facilitate smooth trade and investments flows, promote job creation and sustainable development.  
2.19.   One ex ample of such an engagement is Fiji 's participation in the Indo -Pacific Economic 
Framework (IPEF) for Prosperity, which aims to fuel economic activity and investment, promote 
sustainable and inclusive economic growth through negotiation of four key pillars : (i) trade; 
(ii) supply chains; ( iii) clean economy; and ( iv) fair economy (tax and anti -corruption).  
2.20.   In May this year, the IPEF partners substantially concluded negotiations on the supply chain 
pillar.  The IPEF Supply Chain Agreement is a first -of-its-kind international agreement , which aims 
to increase the resilience, efficiency, productivity, sustainability, transparency, diversification, 
security, fairness, and inclusivity of their supply chains through both collaborative activities and 
individual actions taken by each IPEF partner.  
2.21.   To overcome the multifaceted challenges facing Fiji, we recognize the vital role that support 
and assistance from our trade partners play. We remain committed to fostering and strengthening 
regional and intern ational partnerships to unlock new trade opportunities and promote sustainable 
economic growth.  
2.22.   I wish to emphasi ze the priorities that lie at the heart of our newly elected Government 's 
vision for economic growth and building resilience through internatio nal trade.  
2.23.   Fiji recognizes that a diversified economy is vital for stability as it allows us to be less 
susceptible to external shocks. While we recogni ze the contributions of our traditional industries, 
such as agriculture and tourism, we are committed to  exploring new sectors and avenues for 
economic expansion. By promoting investments in renewable energy, ICT, BPO, manufacturing, film 
making and other creative industries, and other emerging sectors, we aim to reduce over -reliance 
on specific industries a nd create a more resilient economic landscape.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  2.24.   The backbone of Fiji's economy lies in our vibrant community of micro, small, and medium 
enterprises. We view MSME empowerment critical to fostering inclusive growth and reducing income 
inequality. Through tar geted capacity -building programmes, improved access to finance, and 
enhanced market linkages, we seek to nurture our MSMEs' entrepreneurial spirit and enable them 
to thrive in both local and international markets.  
2.25.   Fiji has undertaken significant efforts to  improve the business environment and enhance trade 
facilitation within our nation. Recognizing the crucial role of a business -friendly climate in attracting 
investment and promoting trade, Fiji has implemented a range of reforms to streamline processes, 
reduce bureaucracy, and foster an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.  
2.26.   Additionally, Fiji is taking substantial steps in moderni zing our trade facilitation environment, 
with the assistance of international organizations such as UNCTA D and the World  Bank, and 
International Plant Protection Convention.  
2.27.   As an island nation, the efficient movement of goods and services is paramount for Fiji's trade 
competitiveness. Our commitment to trade facilitation encompasses streamlining customs 
procedures, enhancing port infrastructure, and leveraging technology to expedite cross -border 
transactions. By reducing trade barriers and simplifying administrative processes, we strive to create 
an enabling environment that encourages trade and investment.  
2.28.   Allow me to highlight the paramount importance of the conclusion of the second wave of the 
negotiations on the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement for Fiji. As a nation deeply connected to the 
ocean, fisheries play a vital role in our economy, food security, and cultural heritage. Thus, the 
successful conclusion of these negotiations holds significant implications for our nation's sustainable 
development and environmental stewardship.  
2.29.   During the WTO 12th Ministerial  Conference, recogni zing the urgency of addressin g the 
challenges faced by our oceans, Fiji led the charge, on behalf of the Pacific nations and the ACP, in 
seeking an outcome on the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.  
2.30.   Fiji's commitment to the cause goes beyond words. We have tabled a comprehensive proposa l 
followed by a text, for the negotiation of the remaining issues on the Agreement on Fisheries 
Subsidies. Our proposal seeks to strike a balance, taking into account the diverse interests and 
circumstances of all Member States. We stand resolute in our co mmitment to driving the negotiations 
on the remaining issues forward and earnestly seek the support and partnership of our fellow WTO 
Members, with a view to conclude negotiations by MC13 in February  2024. Fiji 's Permanent Mission 
to Geneva is reaching out  to Members to sociali ze the text and answer any questions that Members 
may have on it.  
2.31.   Fiji notes that there have been many questions from Members regarding our outstanding 
notifications to the WTO. Rest assured that Fiji 's inability to meet its notificat ion obligations is 
independent of Fiji 's commitment to WTO. One of the primary challenges in meeting WTO notification 
requirements is capacity constraints, inadequate data, and competing priorities, such as addressing 
pressing domestic issues.  
2.32.   In response  to the capacity limitations, Fiji is actively engaged in developing capacity and 
working with development partners such as the UNDP and the New  Zealand Government, in 
addressing these capacity gaps.  
2.33.   We have also received several questions regarding women participation in business and 
cross-border trade. Fiji recogni zes the importance of promoting women empowerment in 
employment, business entrepreneurship, and cross -border trade. Fiji has adopted gender 
mainstreaming in the National Budget process, and line  Ministries play a critical role in encouraging 
more women participation in business, entrepreneurship, company boards and in cross -border trade.  
2.34.   We also received questions on the environment and our role in the international and 
multilateral forum. As sta ted earlier, climate change continues to pose an existential threat to Fiji. 
We call on the entire WTO Membership to ensure that through responsible and sustainable trade we 
are able to mitigate the effects of climate degradation and environment exploitati on. Our unique 
ecosystem and biodiversity help us maintain livelihoods for our rural and maritime communities and WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  supports our largest industry, tourism. Thus, Fiji 's advocacy of environment and climate change is 
a matter of our survival.  
2.35.   As I round up my remarks this morning, on behalf of my delegation, I wish to express our 
gratitude for the opportunity to engage in this constructive process. I also extend our sincere 
appreciation to all Members for their valuable questions, contributions and feedback. Th ose 
contributions will be instrumental in shaping our future trade policies.  
2.36.   Fiji is committed to multilateralism and remains determined in preserving and furthering the 
basic principles and objectives that underpin the multilateral trading system. Having a fully fledged 
Mission in Geneva, is testament to our commitments, even though it is challenging for a small island 
nation to have a presence in Geneva and allocate resources.  
2.37.   Thank you for the opportunity to present our Trade Policy Review and we look fo rward to a 
productive and constructive conversation.  Vinaka  and thank you.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  Bula (hello), Ni Sa Bula Vinaka  (hello and good health) , Yadra  (good morning)  
3.2.  Let me begin by welcoming the Fiji delegation, headed by Deputy Prime  Minister and the 
Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, the 
Honourable Mr  Manoa Seru Kamikamica, and my friend and colleague, Ambassador Luke  Daunivalu, 
Permanent Secretary Mr  Shaheen  Ali, and their teams that are here today. Bula to you all  
3.3.  I was in Nadi, Fiji, with the Director -General of the WTO and with Ambassador Daunivalu and 
colleagues last November to discuss the needs of the Pacific and  to discuss the fisheries subsidies 
achievement.  
3.4.  As my friend Ambassador  from Samoa,  Nella Pepe Tavita -Levy, said we said Bula every two 
minutes. Sometimes we felt all bula-ed out.  But if we learn a little bit more about what this powerful 
and heavily used  word means, we'll learn more about Fiji. So that's why I'm speaking a little bit 
about this.  Because Bula is the Fijian for hello but as I learnt in Fiji - it is also an affirmation of life.  
It is an encapsulation of the spirit of Fiji, our friends, our b rothers and sisters, and our neighbours.  
3.5.  We thank you, Deputy Prime  Minister, for bringing this spirit of life to Geneva.  Let me also 
thank both Fiji and the Secretariat for their high -quality reports, which enable Members to form a 
deeper understanding of  Fiji's trade and economic policies and are the basis for our exchanges today.  
Personal reflection  
3.6.  It is a pleasure to act as discussant at Fiji's fourth  Trade Policy Review .  
3.7.  I am particularly pleased to serve here as Fiji and Australia are both part of a Pacific Vuvale  – 
a "Pacific  family". I had the great pleasure of witnessing first hand the power of those family bonds 
at the WTO's 12th Ministerial Conference. Of course, I'm  talking about the work we did together, Fiji, 
Australia and the Pacific in delivering the historic Fisheries Subsidies Agreement.  
3.8.  On the potential brink of collapse in the last hours of MC12, it was Fiji that delivered an 
impassioned and morally powerful  request for WTO Ministers to return to the table and fulfil their 
commitment to the sustainability of our oceans – it was one of those rare moments you see in 
diplomacy where leadership and the ability to speak truth to power changed hearts and minds. It 
sprung us into action and we worked closely with Fiji and the region to find a solution that could 
lock-in the gains we made and guarantee a commitment to the second wave of negotiations. Through 
that night we were able to persuade others to join us and se cure the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement. 
So, congratulations, Minister, for your country's leadership.  
3.9.  I'll use these remarks to focus on three broad headings whilst drawing out some key 
observations.  
3.10.   Firstly, I will take a look at how Fiji has performed si nce its last TPR. Secondly, I will identify 
some of the main recent changes in Fiji's trade and investment policies. Finally, I will highlight some 
of the main areas of interest that were raised through Members' questions and in the reports.  
Fiji's perform ance since the last Trade Policy Review  
3.11.   First, the overall economic context. This review comes at a difficult and challenging time for 
the global economy, for international cooperation and the multilateral trading system as well as for 
Fiji. 
3.12.   The COVID -19 pandemic, Russia n Federation 's invasion of Ukraine and the devastating, 
worsening and more frequent impacts of natural disasters and climate change have all impacted 
Fiji's economic environment in recent years. With an important services and tourism sector Fiji has 
been particularly buffeted by considerable challenges in recent years. Fiji is still recovering from the 
devastating impact of COVID -19 and the distressing occurrence of two recent major Tropical 
Cyclones (in December  2020 and 2021).  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  3.13.   I applaud the  Fijian people's resilience and the impressive private sector -led recovery.  
3.14.   Despite these shocks, the Fijian economy is fundamentally strong. It experienced nine 
consecutive years of growth from 2010 -2018. Trade is a driver of that strength, and the report s 
highlight that Fiji's trade policy settings have supported its growth, its development and is supporting 
its recovery.  
3.15.   Trade has always been a central pillar of Fiji's economy. Fiji has been a trading nation for over 
3,500  years. Early on, the trade wind s brought a wide range of vegetables, pigs and a style of 
pottery known as Lapita -ware from Melanesia into Fiji. Within Fiji, fertile regions in south Viti  Levu 
near Sigatoka became known as the "salad bowl of Fiji ", with agriculture trade within Fiji supp orting 
food security in less fertile regions and more populated cities.  
3.16.   Today, trade is just as important to Fiji's economy, and Fiji's trade policy is underpinning the 
recovery from and recent natural disasters. Indicators point to a robust growth outlook with Fiji the 
second fastest growing national economy in the world in 2022 (growth estimated at 15.6%). The  key 
indicators supporting growth for 2022 include visitor arrivals (1,912.5%), investment lending 
(25.0%), imports of investment goods (13.6 %), and personal remittances (23.1%).  
3.17.   My first key observation is that trade has played a key role in Fiji's growth and development 
across its history, and supports its recovery from economic shocks. Its open, outward facing trade 
policy is a key driver of  its development and its reforms will continue strengthen Fiji's sustainable 
development.  
Fiji is a powerful voice for the system  
3.18.   Recognizing the important role that trade has always played and continues to play for Fiji's 
economy, it comes as no surprise that Fiji's engagement in the multilateral trading system is 
significant.  
3.19.   And this leads me to my second key observation. Fiji makes an outsized contribution to the 
multilateral trading system. As we witnessed first -hand at MC12, and as the reports and que stions 
from Members identify – Fiji is an important contributor to the trade policy system. Fiji has a powerful 
voice in the multilateral trading system. It has a voice of authority on issues of sustainability, on 
fisheries subsidies, on climate issues, on  development considerations and on the importance of the 
multilateral trading system in underpinning global prosperity, security , and development.  
3.20.   Its voice helped deliver the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. Fiji initiated the WTO Dialogue 
on Plastics Po llution, of which Australia is also a proud coordinator alongside Fiji. It is a firm believer 
and calls for trade to play its important role in the challenges facing our environment. Fiji is a critical 
participant in the Trade and Environmental Sustainabil ity Structured Discussions (TESSD). In the 
questions for this TPR, recogni zing Fiji's role on trade and sustainability issues a number of Members 
highlighted their interest in Fiji's implementation of its climate change policies and mitigation 
measures.  
3.21.   Fiji's voice helps the WTO deliver – but it also helps remind the world that the global trading 
system, underpinned by a fully functioning Dispute Settlement System is critical for countries like 
Fiji. The system provides confidence in the predictable enfo rcement of global trade rules and ensures 
that Members' rights and obligations can be enforced, regardless of their size or power. I  welcome 
Fiji's commitment to the system and encourage Fiji to amplify its voice in pursuit of the 
reestablishment of system . While the current dysfunction continues, I would also encourage Fiji and 
other Members to join the Multi -party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA).  
3.22.   Similarly, I would encourage Fiji to lift its powerful voice in its calls for reform of agricul ture. 
The Fijian agricultural sector employs, directly or indirectly, close to two thirds of Fiji's labour force 
and supports the livelihoods of 27% of Fiji's population. Prone to the effects of climate change and 
as an island country, Fiji recognizes inte rnational trade is central to Fiji' food security. Unfortunately, 
many Members continue to provide trade distorting domestic support – over USD  800 billion (of 
which 87% is harmful to the environment, or human health and is trade distorting) – which threat ens 
global food security. Fiji's voice on the issue of agricultural subsidy reform, just like on fisheries, WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  could be powerful in propagating reform that supports food security, development, livelihoods , and 
the climate.  
The main changes and developments in  Fiji's economic, trade and investment policies  
3.23.   Now let me turn to some of Fiji's major reforms and development. And at this point I would 
like to share my third key observation – Fiji's economy is moderni zing rapidly. This modernization, 
supported by Fiji 's trade and investment policies, are critical to securing Fiji's long -term sustainable 
development.  
3.24.   Fiji's strategic vision, as highlighted in its National Development Plan relies on two pillars:  
(i) ensuring inclusive socio -economic development to improve living standards of 
citizens; and  
(ii) promoting transformational strategic actions to maximize Fiji's potential.  
3.25.   Fiji is working to continue to moderni ze its economy and mature its trade and investment 
policies. It places empha sis on promoting the development of MSMEs, empowering youth and 
women, and building an environmentally sustainable economy. The new coalition government's raft 
of new programmes will support these goals – including its programmes to facilitate business 
training, support business advisory services, increase access to finance, develop young 
entrepreneurs, and enhance trade.  
3.26.   Its National Export Strategy, currently under review, continues to serve as a guideline to 
achieve sustainable growth in export competiti veness, value addition, and diversification – and 
recogni zes the key role of exports in Fiji's economic stability.  
3.27.   Fiji's stated trade policy objectives of diversification, meaningful market access, investment 
stimulation, human capital, manufacturing and services capacity building, and commitment to 
gender and environmental protection are all notable. I would like to draw particular attention to this 
Coalition Government's recent endeavours to consult the private sector in its policy formulation, as 
eviden ced by the reestablishment of the National Economic Summit this year.  
3.28.   Since the last TPR, Fiji has undertaken reforms to promote investment, trade , and economic 
growth. As part of the reform package, Fiji now has an Investment Policy Statement that sets th e 
vision, objectives , and principles of the Fiji Government for investment growth. The Investment 
Policy Statement identified the policy and strategic changes required to further improve the 
investment environment in Fiji.  
3.29.   Digitali zation represents a key s olution to narrowing the vast trade distances in the Pacific 
and the integration of urban and rural markets. Fiji continues to lead the region in digitization and 
digitalization, with the Government committing to the benefits of digitalization in accessing  
international markets through e -commerce. The strength of Fiji's Business Process Outsourcing 
(BPO) sector, for example, was demonstrated through their continued reliable operation throughout 
the pandemic.  
3.30.   Which brings me to a few key areas of interest id entified in this TPR.  
Main areas of interest in this Trade Policy Review  
3.31.   As an active participant in the multilateral trading system , it is not surprising that Fiji received 
a number of written questions for this review from 14  WTO Members.  
3.32.   Members are in terested in:  
• Understanding more about how Fiji intends to implement its climate change goals, 
recognizing the firm commitments made by Fiji through the adoption of its Climate Change 
Act (2001) amongst others.  
• How Fiji intends to continue to support econom ic recovery. Members recognized the strong 
private sector led response underpinned by innovative economic policy by Fiji's Government.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  • Understanding the implications of its ratification of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement 
in 2017, and whether there a re remaining trade facilitation challenges faced by Fiji.  
• How Fiji intends to support increases in productivity in its agriculture sector.  
• Recogni zing Fiji's important role in concluding the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, could Fiji 
provide and update on i ts domestic efforts to accept the Agreement?  
• Noting the important role of the services sector and the growth of Fiji's outsourcing sector, 
how does Fiji intend to further promote competition and growth in the sector?  
• Recogni zing Fiji's commitment to youth empowerment and women's economic involvement 
how does Fiji intend to further incorporate these goals into its trade and investment 
strategies ? 
Concluding Remarks  
3.33.   Since its 2016 TPR, Fiji has made impressive trade policy revisions in the trying global and 
regional economic context. I strongly believe that Fiji's encouraging fundamental economic policy, 
commitment to private sector consultation, and recognition of it s role as a leader in the global trading 
system clearly demonstrates Fiji is on the right track for economic recovery and growth.  
3.34.   Fiji has a powerful voice at the WTO and is committed to the multilateral trading system. 
Trade has and continues to be a cri tical underpinning of Fiji's economic success and supported by 
strong policy will continue to support the growth and moderni zation of Fiji's economy.  
3.35.   I hope that we will have a constructive and useful exchange over the next few days in order 
to improve our  understanding of Fiji's policies and practices and their future direction. I wish Fiji a 
very successful fourth  Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.1.  I would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Fiji to their fourth  Review, led by 
Deputy Prime  Minister, Honourable Mr  Manoa  Seru Kamikamica. Let me also thank you, Chair, and 
our distinguished discussant, Ambassador George  Mina, for your insights.  
4.2.  As fellow Commonwealth members, the United  Kingdom holds strong and endurin g ties with 
Fiji. It is in fact through the Commonwealth and the Trade Ministers meeting, that our Minister for 
International Trade, Minister Huddleston, was able to recently meet with yourself, Deputy 
Prime  Minister, for what I am told was a very construc tive discussion on how we can further 
strengthen our trading ties.  
4.3.  So, let me start by address our trading relationship, I am delighted that Fiji, alongside other 
Pacific States, has secured duty -free quota -free access to the UK market under the UK -Pacific 
Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). We are currently looking to arrange our first meeting of the 
Trade Committee established under this agreement which will enable us to develop a shared agenda 
for the future of our trading relationship and allow us to  establish the necessary governance for the 
implementation of the EPA. We look forward to engaging further with Fiji on its tariff liberali zation 
schedule, following the updated schedule it agreed with their EU counterparts.  
4.4.  We also welcome the achievemen ts of Fijian businesses under the UK Trade Partnership 
Programme. Last September , delicious Fijian ginger was represented at a London food fair, and 
through the support of UK Trade Partnership three products received Great Taste Awards – an 
accolade recogn ized as a reliable stamp of excellence among major food buyers which provides a 
gateway to exciting opportunities for producers. This year we are scaling up ambition of the UK 
Trade Partnership programme to promote Fijian beauty products.  
4.5.  Alongside these plans, we are aware that Fiji is keen to diversify its export market and 
welcomes Fiji 's intentions for sustainable hardwood exports, which we believe will help contribute 
towards mitigating harmful climate change. We also welcome the growing influence and  importance 
of the tourism sector in Fiji, which contributes to roughly 38% of GDP. The UK strongly supports 
diversification to strengthen growth and economic resilience and is keen to hear from Fiji about 
further plans, and opportunities to support, diver sification.  
4.6.  If I could now turn to reflect on Fiji 's commendable presence here in Geneva. Fiji is recogni zed 
as providing an active and constructive voice across various WTO files, not only representing its own 
interests, but also strongly advocating for the interests of other Small Island Developing States and 
Pacific countries. This activism and influence extend across the rest of multilateral Geneva as well 
and I congratulate Ambassador Luke  Daunivalu for the excellent work of his delegat ion.  
4.7.  This is exemplified in the fisheries negotiations, where Fiji 's constructive engagement 
contributed towards the landmark Fisheries Subsidies Agreement at MC12. Since then, Fiji 's recent 
proposal on Overfishing and Overcapacity pillar offered new elem ents and sparked a lot of interest 
from Members. The UK applauds this engagement from Fiji, and SIDS more broadly, and we look 
forward to continued constructive discussions to deliver an ambitious and strong agreement which 
protects our fishing resources, coastal communities and fully delivers on SDG Mandate 14.6.  
4.8.  In the Committee on Trade and Development, Fiji play s a vital role as the Pacific  Group 
coordinator, highlighting the difficulties of Members from that region, particularly the SIDS, given 
the uni que vulnerabilities they face. The UK is eager to work closely with Fiji and other SVEs to 
identify how to best build upon the small economies report published earlier this year.  
4.9.  Finally, I want to draw attention to the work Fiji does in the environment sp ace. As co -chair of 
the plastics dialogue Fiji has facilitated vital discourse around the challenges of Plastics Pollution and 
Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade. I would like to emphasi ze the UK 's commitment to the 
various environmental aims of th e WTO and our support for Fiji, as they, like many other SIDS, face 
the most direct and critical impacts of the climate crisis and other environmental challenges. One 
example of our partnership in this space is a joint event we will be hosting on environme ntal services 
at the forthcoming Public Forum in September – to which we are particularly looking forward.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.10.   We also recogni ze the progress that Fiji has made over the review period regarding WTO 
notifications, and we would encourage our Fijian colleagues t o continue this positive trend to enhance 
transparency further.  
4.11.   To conclude, we are grateful to Fiji for engaging in this important transparency exercise and 
wish them a most successful fourth Review.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.12.   We warmly welcome the Fiji delegation led b y Deputy Prime  Minister and Minister for Trade,  
Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications ; the Hon ourable  Mr Manoa  Seru Kamikamica. The 
partnership between Australia and Fiji is strong and enduring, underpinned by the Vuvale  Partnership 
and membership of the P acific Island Forum. Fiji is an important partner for Australia.  
4.13.   We note the strong and effective cooperation between Australia and Fiji at the WTO including 
with your Permanent Representative, H .E. Luke Daunivalu.  
4.14.   Our partnership played an important role in securing the successful conclusion at MC12 of the 
first phase of the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, and we recogni ze Fiji's leadership in achieving this 
outcome. We welcome Fiji 's deep engagement in the second wave of negotiations. Fiji 's proposal to 
curb subsidies contributing to overcapacity and overfishing is testimony to Fiji 's commitment to the 
negotiations. We commit to working closely with Fiji to pursue an ambitious and effective Agreement.  
4.15.   We also acknowledge F iji's leadership on climate, its ambitious domestic reforms and its 
efforts to align multilateral trade and environment initiatives. Trade and the multilateral trading 
system must be part of the solution to environmental problems, including climate change.  We note 
Fiji's ongoing commitment to ensuring that the multilateral trading system plays its part in 
responding to climate issues and reiterate our commitment to work alongside Fiji in pursuance of 
this goal.  
4.16.   Australia is a proud co -coordinator of the Di alogue of Plastic Pollution at the WTO, which Fiji 
initiated – for which we commend Fiji 's leadership. We look forward to working alongside Fiji to drive 
the initiative towards "concrete, pragmatic and effective " outcomes at MC13 and beyond.  
4.17.   We note the gr owth of e -commerce within Fiji 's economy, for example its Business Process 
Outsourcing (BPO) sector. Australia encourages Fiji to consider building further on this by joining 
the WTO Joint Statement Initiative (JSI) on Electronic  Commerce. The digital trad e rules that JSI 
participants are negotiating stand to support developing countries to engage further in digital trade, 
boost digital inclusion and enable enterprises, including micro, small and medium -sized enterprises, 
to access global markets to the ben efit of workers, businesses , and consumers.  
4.18.   On agriculture, we note that 87 % of agricultural support – of over USD  800 billion in global 
support - is trade distorting, or harmful to human health and the environment. Agriculture 
underwrites the livelihood and income of 27 % of Fiji 's population. Given the importance of the 
agriculture sector to Fiji 's economy, and Fiji 's leadership on climate issues and subsidy reform, we 
encourage Fiji to amplify its calls for reform of domestic support in agriculture. Aust ralia, and the 
Cairns  Group, stand ready to collaborate with Fiji in pursuit of this common cause.  
4.19.   We share a strong interest in an effective rules -based global trading system, with the WTO at 
its core. Australia appreciates Fiji 's commitment to strengthen ing this institution through the WTO 
reform agenda. To further support the rules -based multilateral system, we encourage Fiji to join 
Australia and others in the Multi -party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement as an interim solution 
while discussions on  restoring the full functionality of the Dispute Settlement System continue.  
4.20.   The Government of Fiji has done a remarkable job on its economic fundamentals following 
the very challenging period of COVID -19 - which resulted in both devastating loss of life a nd 
economic impacts. Fiji demonstrates a commitment to liberal economic policies and we note the 
reforms that enable it to continue integrating with and benefiting from global trade.  
4.21.   Reform of the Investment Fiji Act 2022 is a welcome development in effor ts to attract foreign 
investors, showing Fiji 's commitment to the principles of non -discrimination - by providing investor WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  protection such as fair and equitable treatment, national treatment, and most  favoured  nation 
treatment. Also, Fiji 's digiti zation of  business and government services through the launch of the 
bizFIJI portal will help facilitate investment applications and instil business confidence.  
4.22.   Free trade agreements play a role in supporting regional integration. The South Pacific 
Regional Trade a nd Economic Co -operation Agreement (SPARTECA), established in 1981, has 
supported duty -free access for Fiji and other member countries of the Pacific Islands Forum to the 
Australian and New  Zealand markets. We encourage Fiji to give further consideration t o joining the 
Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER)  Plus - a modern and comprehensive 
Agreement with significant "in-built" technical assistance and capacity building components. 
PACER  Plus will help simplify and harmoni ze trade and invest ment rules and negotiations, thereby 
reducing the costs to traders and investors. As one of the largest economies in the Pacific and a 
regional leader, Fiji would make the PACER  Plus more complete. Australia remains ready to engage 
further with Fiji on PAC ER Plus and respond to any questions Fiji may have.  
4.23.   Australia welcomes Fiji 's ongoing commitment to negotiations on the Indo -Pacific Economic 
Framework (IPEF), as we continue to consider new ways to deal with contemporary trade and 
investment challenges. An important Pacific voice at the table, we appreciate Fiji 's constructive 
approach to the negotiations, and look forward to working to ensure IPEF delivers tangible benefits 
for all members as soon as possible.  
4.24.   In closing, Australia congratulates Fiji on its progress in implementing its WTO commitments. 
We wish Fiji a successful Trade Policy Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.25.   Brazil would like to thank the Government of Fiji for engaging in its fourth  Trade Policy Review 
and for providing Members with an overview of the country 's economic performance, trade policies 
and adherence to the multilateral trading system.  
4.26.   We would like to welcome the delegation from Fiji, headed by the Hon ourable  Mr Manoa Seru 
Kamikamica, Deputy Prime  Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperative s, SMEs and 
Communications ; and extend greetings to its representatives in Geneva, led by H.E . Ambassador 
Luke Daunivalu.  
4.27.   We would also like to express our appreciation to the WTO Secretariat for its thorough and 
comprehensive Report, as well as to you, Ch air, and the discussant, H.E . Ambassador George  Mina 
(Australia), for your contribution to a successful trade monitoring exercise.  
4.28.   Since its previous Review in 2016, Fiji has been facing severe constraints in its economy. 
After constant economic growth be tween 2009 and 2018, Fiji has experienced challenges in keeping 
this trajectory in the recent years. In addition to the difficulties derived from extreme weather 
events, the country had to cope with the effects of the pandemic.  
4.29.   Bilateral relationship betw een Fiji and Brazil began in 2006. The value of bilateral trade is 
modest, accounting for USD 1.9 million in trade flow. This figure indicates there is potential to growth 
in bilateral trade.  
4.30.   Brazil is keen to open the Fijian market to beef exports from Br azil. We have been trying to 
negotiate an International Health Certificate with Fiji and we look forward to receiving more 
engagement from the Fijian side in the near future. Brazil appreciates the responses from Fiji to the 
questions posed by Brazil, whic h address technical issues regarding this potential market.  
4.31.   Brazil notes with satisfaction the recent development of the bilateral relationship in other 
areas, with the negotiation of several cooperation instruments in the fields of health, culture, sport s, 
and education. We hope our trade relationship can also benefit from this trend and fulfil its potential.  
4.32.   We wish Fiji a successful Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  NEW ZEALAND  
4.33.   Aotearoa  New Zealand extends a very warm welcome to the Fijian delegation led by the 
Honourable Deputy Prime  Minister Kamikamica. It is wonderful to see so many colleagues here in 
Geneva for the fourth Trade Policy Review of Fiji.  
4.34.   I would also like to thank the Government of Fiji, in particular Ambassador Daunivalu and his 
team, with whom my  delegation enjoys a close working relationship, as well as the Secretariat, for 
their work in preparing us for this review. We thank the discussant, H .E. Ambassador Mina of 
Australia for his insightful analysis. It is evident that the Fijian Government ha s undertaken 
considerable work to address matters raised during the previous Review, which we commend.  
4.35.   New Zealand holds a substantial interest in Fiji 's trade and investment policies, given the 
close links between our two countries. Fiji is a key regiona l partner for us, being our largest Pacific 
Island trading partner, and among our top 25 trading partners globally. Two -way trade between us 
reached nearly USD 650 million for the year ending 2022.  
4.36.   Since Fiji 's election in December last year, there has be en a significant exchange of high -level 
visitors between Fiji and New  Zealand. In addition to Prime  Minister the Honourable Sitiveni  Rabuka , 
New Zealand was delighted to be able to welcome you, Deputy Prime  Minister Kamikamica, and 
Finance Minister, the Honourable  Professor Biman  Prasad. Those visits provided the opportunity for 
rich engagement on Fiji 's trade policy and broader economic aspi rations.  
4.37.   Like ours, Fiji 's trade profile continues to have a strong focus on agricultural exports. We 
welcomed the recent commitment from the Government of Fiji during its budget process to reduce 
duties on meat products – including selected lamb, beef, and chicken products. This announcement 
is consistent with the WTO objective to liberali ze trade, will almost certainly benefit Fijian consumers, 
and will help ease some of the cost pressures from high -inflation that Fiji and others are 
experiencing.  
4.38.   In the WTO, New  Zealand and Fiji enjoy close collaboration across a range of work streams, 
including in relation to strengthening the rules -based system and work at the trade and environment 
nexus. For instance, we are pleased to work alongside Fiji as a cosponsor of the Fossil Fuel Subsidies 
Reform initiative. We also welcome Fiji 's active engagement in the Trade and Environmental 
Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD) and Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and 
Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trad e (DPP) processes, including as a co -coordinator of the 
DPP.  
4.39.   We strongly support Fiji 's approach to the sustainable management of its fisheries. 
New Zealand actively supports Fiji 's fisheries management system through our regional fisheries 
support progra mme, and we greatly appreciated Fiji 's work over many years in the WTO Fisheries 
Subsidies negotiations. Fiji 's leadership was instrumental in getting the Fisheries Subsidies 
Agreement across the line at MC12, and we look forward to Fiji depositing its Ins trument of 
Acceptance soon. We also welcome Fiji 's active and constructive engagement in the second wave of 
negotiations, including recent text proposals put forward to advance the discussions.  We look 
forward to continuing to work together in order to rea ch agreement on a comprehensive and 
ambitious final pillar that reflects the importance of the fisheries sector to Fiji 's economy as well as 
its world -class fisheries management practices.  
4.40.   In respect of the Trade Policy Review reports, we took particular n ote that of the statement 
that Fiji views regional integration as a key steppingstone towards fuller participation in the 
increasingly liberali zed global economy; and that Fiji considers that its trade agreements will help 
increase market access and invest ment inflows in support of its economic diversification efforts. 
New Zealand welcomes these sentiments.  
4.41.   We particularly value the leadership role that Fiji plays within the Pacific. We look forward to 
Fiji enhancing its credentials as a regional leader, an d we encourage Fiji to join New  Zealand and 
our other Pacific partners in our important regional free trade agreement, PACER  Plus. New  Zealand 
welcomes Fiji 's recent active engagement in regional and plurilateral trade processes, including the 
Indo-Pacific  Economic Framework.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.42.   We have been pleased to recently contribute technical support to Fiji to assist with further 
enhancing its trade capacity, and look forward to further engagement with Fiji as to what further 
support can be provided in this area.  
4.43.   Fiji's strategic vision, as highlighted in its Development Plan, places empha sis on promoting 
MSMEs' development, empowering youth and women, and building an environmentally sustainable 
economy. These are consistent with New  Zealand 's broader trade priorities, a s articulated in our 
Trade for All Agenda. We strongly support the efforts made by the Fiji Government in particular to 
enhance opportunities for MSMEs, who play a critical role in the Fijian economy. We look forward to 
working with Fiji on related initiat ives, and to supporting it to continue broadening the benefits of 
trade engagement to underserved groups.  
4.44.   We are impressed by Fiji 's strong economic recovery since the COVID -19 pandemic. Fiji 
suffered one of the hardest economic contractions of any econom y during COVID -19, but its 
subsequent growth, led by the tourism sector, has been significant. It is evident that trade and 
investment reforms introduced since the last Trade Policy Review, including the passing of the 2022 
Investment Act, have contributed  to Fiji 's trade performance.  
4.45.   New Zealand welcomes Fiji 's continuing efforts to facilitate the flow of imports and exports. 
Implementation of policies that will insulate Fiji from the negative effects of external shocks will 
allow for a more stable trade posture. New  Zealand believes that further restructuring and 
streamlining of Fiji 's regulatory framework and associated processes for trade and investment will 
increase investor confidence to the benefit of Fiji. We welcome the recent statements by you, De puty 
Prime  Minister, that Fiji is focused on building investor confidence and improving the business 
environment. New  Zealand stands ready to support with technical assistance and looks forward to 
further conversations with the Government of Fiji as to wha t would be useful in this regard.  
4.46.   In conclusion, the Secretariat and Fijian Government reports illustrate the positive steps Fiji 
is taking to ensure an open and stable trading and economic environment, in particular through 
active engagement with interna tional trade processes, and through work to improve the business 
environment in Fiji. New  Zealand encourages Fiji to continue seeking opportunities to be part of 
regional and international trade -mechanisms, as a pathway to increasing its overall trade link age 
with the global community, and as a mechanism for further accelerating its economic recovery 
following the COVID -19 pandemic. We look forward to being part of Fiji 's journey.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.47.   En nombre de la delegación de Costa  Rica y del Embajador Saborío, deseo darle la bienvenida 
a Ginebra al Excmo.  Sr. Manoa Seru Kamikamica, Primer Ministro Adjunto y Ministro de Comercio, 
Cooperativas, Pymes, y Comunicaciones de Fiji. Asimismo, quisiera saludar a la delegación que lo 
acompaña  y aprovechar para agradecer las reflexiones de l ponente , el Embajador Mina, enmarcando 
de manera clara y orgánica la discusión que hoy nos reúne.  
4.48.   Costa  Rica y Fiji comparten muchas similitudes, a nivel de desarrollo humano, vulnerabilidad 
a los shocks cli máticos, la prioridad asignada a las pymes y al empoderamiento de las mujeres, y 
en particular la importancia que se le otorga a robustecer su economía con un enfoque 
ambientalmente sostenible.  
4.49.   En esa línea, felicitamos a Fiji por su compromiso y liderazgo  en las negociaciones que 
culminaron exitosamente con la aprobación del acuerdo sobre subvenciones a la pesca en la pasada 
Conferencia Ministerial. Esa inclinación por preservar y hacer uso sostenible de sus recursos 
naturales y por eliminar progresivament e la dependencia de los combustibles fósiles, es lo que 
convierte a Fiji en una potencia para el turismo sostenible y como generador de servicios como 
motor de su economía.  
4.50.   Mi delegación aprovecha esta oportunidad para agradecer a Fiji su apoyo como patroc inadores 
de las Discusiones Estructuradas sobre Comercio y Sostenibilidad Ambiental, pues empatizamos con 
los retos de ser una delegación pequeña, sin embargo su apoyo y participación ha enviado un 
mensaje fuerte y claro de la importancia de participar en estas discusiones, sobre todo para los 
pequeños estados insulares en desarrollo (PEID).  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.51.   Costa  Rica es un firme creyente en la cooperación, particularmente entre países en desarrollo 
y sobre todo entre aquellos que comparten similitudes económicas, geográfi cas, y de desarrollo. Fiji 
es un Miembro activo y comprometido con el sistema multilateral de comercio, con una destacable 
experiencia que compartir. Costa  Rica se une a este ejercicio de transparencia para aprender más 
de la política comercial y de invers ión de Fiji, con el fin último de potenciar las oportunidades que 
puedan existir entre ambos países y fortalecer los lazos de intercambio y cooperación. Mi delegación 
desea aprovechar este espacio para instar a Fiji a ponerse al día con notificaciones pend ientes como 
Miembro comprometido con el sistema.  
4.52.   Remitimos una serie de preguntas en materia de inversión y servicios, con ese espíritu de 
construir y conocer sobre la política de Fiji. Mi capital se encuentra evaluando las respuestas 
recibidas y agradece mos la proactividad de Fiji preparándolas.  
4.53.   En conclusión, Costa  Rica felicita a Fiji en cuarto  examen de política comercial, ejercicio de 
transparencia máximo de esta Organización, deseándoles una exitosa sesión y agradecemos el 
apoyo técnico y sólido de l a Secretaría en su preparación.  
CHINA  
4.54.   I want to extend my warm welcome to the delegation of Fiji led by the Honourable  Mr Manoa 
Seru Kamikamica, and I appreciate the Government of Fiji for the preparation for this review. I  would 
also like to thank the discussant, H.E.  Mr George  Mina, for his insightful remarks. Let me also thank 
the Secretariat for their invaluable contribution to the present Review.  
4.55.   China applauds Fiji 's action in undertaking reforms to promote investment, trade, and 
economic growth since  the last TPR. We  would  like to compliment Fiji 's progress in implementing its 
National Development Plan to pursue a progressive, vibrant, and inclusive society, including 
promoting MSMEs ' development, empowering youth and women, and building an environmen tally 
sustainable economy.  
4.56.   Under the circumstances that the COVID -19 pandemic has severely hit the global tourism 
industry and related industries, we highly affirm the series of positive response measures taken by 
the Fijian Government, including increasin g the vaccination rate. We are happy to see that Fiji 's GDP 
growth reached 15.6% in 2022, and the recovery is set to continue in 2023.  
4.57.   China appreciates Fiji 's firm commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system and 
its substantial contribution to the WTO through its active acceptance and steady implementation of 
the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the TRIPS Amendment. China also commends Fiji 's critical role 
at MC12 as the Chair of the Pacific Group in the Fisheries Subsidies negotiation and engaging in 
discussions on the WTO response to the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.58.   China is delighted to note that Fiji has taken the initiative to bring to the forefront the impact 
of climate change and actively participated in the Trade and Environmen tal Sustainability Structured 
Discussions (TESSD) and the Fossil Fuel Subsidies Reform Initiative. China is also grateful to Fiji for 
working with relevant Members and China to launch the Informal Dialogue on Plastic Pollution and 
Environmentally Sustainab le Plastic Trade and for its leadership as a coordinator in the ongoing 
discussions. China looks forward to extensive cooperation with Fiji and other cosponsors to achieve 
positive outcomes by MC13.  
4.59.   In addition to the WTO, China highly admires Fiji 's essen tial role in the Belt and Road Initiative 
and its efforts to integrate into the increasingly liberalized global economy through deeper 
participation in regional cooperation.  
4.60.   Fiji is an important economic and trade partner of China in the Pacific region; Ch ina is Fiji 's 
fourth -largest source of imports and seventh -largest export destination. China attaches great 
importance to the development of economic and trade relations with Fiji, recent years have seen 
rapid growth in the bilateral trade between us. Chin a's statistics show that despite the impact of the 
COVID -19 pandemic, our bilateral trade was still up 31.1% and 21.6% in 2021 and 2022, 
year-on-year, respectively. Based on that positive trend, our bilateral trade is expected to reach a 
new record this ye ar. WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.61.   The launch of the China -Pacific Island Countries Reserve for Emergency Supplies in 2021 has 
provided an important guarantee for the Pacific Island countries, including Fiji, to improve their 
ability to respond to major public health events and natural disasters and better protect the lives 
and health of the people in the island countries. China is willing to strengthen strategic docking with 
the Pacific Island countries, including Fiji, and deepen cooperation in trade, investment, 
infrastructure, transp ortation and communication, tourism, and other fields to achieve development 
and prosperity jointly.  
4.62.   In 2015, China and Fiji reached an important consensus on promoting the negotiation of a 
bilateral FTA and officially launched a joint feasibility study. B oth sides have completed the report 
under their respective responsibility. China believes that the China -Fiji FTA will help further explore 
the potential of cooperation between the two sides, enhance the level of liberalization and facilitation 
in goods, s ervices, and investment, and bring tangible benefits to enterprises and people of both 
countries. China is willing to work with Fiji, in line with the principles of mutual benefit, pragmatics, 
and efficiency, to continue to promote the work of the joint fe asibility study and strive for its early 
completion to lay a good foundation for the next step of launching negotiations.  
4.63.   China is now accelerating the further development of its domestic market and is willing to 
share the opportunities of its market with all WTO Members. Fiji has actively participated in the 
China International Import Expo (CIIE), the only large -scale import -themed expo globally. 
We welcome Fiji to continue using that platform to increase promotion, expand cooperation and 
promote more advantageous and unique products to the Chinese and global markets. China is willing 
to work with Fiji to jointly promote our bilateral economic and trade cooperation to a new level.  
4.64.   For this review, China has submitted the questions to Fiji, we appreciate the written response 
from Fiji and we will review them carefully.  
4.65.   Finally, I wish the Fiji delegation every success in this T rade Policy Review .  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.66.   On behalf of the European  Union, I would like to welcome the Delegation of Fiji, led by the 
Honourable  Mr Manoa  Seru Kamikamica, Deputy Prime  Minister and Minister for Trade, 
Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications.  
4.67.   I woul d also like to thank the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Fiji for their respective 
reports and express appreciation to H.E.  Mr George Mina (Australia) for his remarks as discussant.  
4.68.   Let me start by acknowledging the extremely challenging external co ntext for Fiji during the 
past review period with devastating impacts of three cyclones on the country 's people and its 
economy as well as the severe economic effects of the COVID -19 pandemic on the key sector of 
tourism. Looking ahead - and on a more posi tive note - there are encouraging signs that economic 
recovery is underway.  
4.69.   The EU would like to commend Fiji for its vision to build an environmentally sustainable 
economy and increase resilience to climate change as reflected in its Development Plan. Th e EU and 
Fiji are strong partners in promoting climate change action on the multilateral stage in the UNFCCC 
framework and as well as working together at the plurilateral and bilateral levels. We welcome Fiji 's 
engagement and participation in the plurilate ral environmental initiatives in the WTO such as on 
plastics pollution, TESSD (Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions) and Fossil 
Fuel Subsidies Reform (FFSR).  
4.70.   The EU and Fiji also share the same commitment to ensuring sustainable ma nagement of 
natural resources, ocean governance and the fight against IUU. We recogni ze Fiji 's active 
participation in the fisheries subsidies negotiations and encourage Fiji and other Members to ratify 
the phase  1 Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies so that this landmark deal can enter into force by 
MC13.  
4.71.   The EU 's bilateral relationship with Fiji is underpinned by the interim Economic Partnership 
Agreement (EPA) that Fiji started to apply in 2014. The Agreement provides for duty -free quota -free 
access to the  EU market alongside flexible rules of origin allowing for the further expansion of trade.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
- 20 - 
 
  The EU looks forward to cooperating with Fiji on the full and effective implementation of the 
Agreement. The recently launched Fiji -European  Union Trade and Investme nt Forum should also 
help to deepen trade and cooperation and provide further opportunities for the private sector, 
including small and medium -sized entrepreneurs.  
4.72.   The EU fully supports Fiji 's integration into the world economy and Pacific regional integration. 
The EU welcomes the Government 's ongoing efforts to diversify the country 's export production 
base. Fiji 's current exports to the EU consist mainly of fish, bottled water, gold , and sugar. Fiji 's 
imports include manufactured goods, ma chinery and equipment, petroleum products, foodstuffs, 
and chemicals.  
4.73.   The EU and its member States are important development partners for Fiji. During the review 
period, the EU has been providing support to Fiji through the Pacific Regional Integration Sup port 
Programme (PRISE) amounting to EUR 37 million. The objective is to assist the Pacific States to 
better reap the benefits of regional trade, the EPA, EBA/GSP and the WTO Trade Facilitation 
Agreement (TFA). Under a new instrument covering the period 202 1-2027, the EU will be providing 
significant funding to Fiji towards the objective of contributing to green and blue Pacific economies, 
including through trade, the EPA and the leverage of private investment.  
4.74.   The EU acknowledges that Fiji has carried out s everal customs' modernization reforms during 
the review period. The EU commends the Government for having fulfilled 97.1% of its TFA 
implementation commitments according to the Secretariat Report. We also welcome Fiji 's active 
participation in multilateral  files, as well as in various plurilateral environment initiatives. Given the 
Government 's reform efforts on investment promotion and facilitation and setting up a framework 
for MSMEs during the review period, we would encourage Fiji to seize the opportuni ties provided by 
the recently concluded negotiations on Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) Agreement, 
those on Services Domestic Regulation and participate in the MSMEs initiative.  
4.75.   The EU would like to thank Fiji for having replied in a compreh ensive manner  to our advance 
questions. The EU 's questions covered Fiji 's support to the fisheries sector, the expected timeline for 
Fiji's acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, the customs treatment of e -commerce 
and postal consignments and the application of Fiji 's Skilled Professionals Act.  
4.76.   Looking ahead, the EU looks forward to further deepening our bilateral trade relationship and 
engaging with Fiji on strengthening and reforming the WTO in preparation for a successful MC13.  
4.77.   On behalf of the EU, I wish Fiji a very productive and successful fourth  Trade Policy Review.  
CANADA  
4.78.   Canada joins others in welcoming the Honourable Mr  Kamikamica and the entire delegation 
of the Republic of Fiji to Geneva. Canada is very pleased to have this opportuni ty to participate in 
the fourth Trade Policy Review of Fiji.  
4.79.   We congratulate Fiji on the strong recovery of its economy following the severe negative 
impacts of the COVID -19 pandemic to its economy and tourism sector in particular. According to the 
World  Bank, Fiji was the strongest performing Pacific economy in 2022 amidst resurgent demand in 
its tourism sector. Despite being a Pacific Small Island Developing State prone to severe weather 
disruptions and exposed to the impacts of climate change, it has bee n very resilient to the shocks 
of the many crises affecting its economy, including the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine, broader 
supply chain disruptions and related food and fuel price inflation. In addition, it has undertaken many 
policy and structura l reforms to promote environmentally sustainable economic growth, the 
development of micro, small  and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the empowerment of youth and 
women. Notably, it has revised the investment framework through adoption of the Investment Fij i 
Act to simplify registration of investment in Fiji and allow investments in key sectors while protecting 
MSMEs. This reform effort continues to inspire business confidence following the free and democratic 
election and peaceful transition of Government i n 2022.  
4.80.   Canada commends Fiji 's commitment to the WTO and to rules -based trade, its work towards 
international economic integration, as well as its policy goals of protecting 30% of the country 's 
waters by 2030 and achieving net zero emission by 2050. Bein g the Pacific Islands Forum Chair WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  in 2022, it has demonstrated leadership in uniting the members of the Forum and facilitating the 
adoption of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent by Pacific Islands leaders, a seminal 
document that charts the f uture course for Fiji and the economies in the region.  
4.81.   Fiji was instrumental in WTO negotiations to obtain the Agreement at the 
WTO's  12th Ministerial Conference in June  2022. We call on Fiji to move quickly to now ratify this 
agreement.  
4.82.   Canada commends F iji for its efforts to reduce the average applied tariff rate from 11% to  6% 
over the review period according to the Secretariat Report. We, however, note that a number of 
applied tariff rates remain over their respective bound rates and encourage Fiji to remedy this 
situation. In addition, Fiji 's negative escalation tariff structure in some industries such as textile and 
food does not align with its development objectives to diversify its economy with manufacturing as 
it discourages investment in processin g in these industries.  
4.83.   It is clear to us that Fiji recognizes the importance of the multilateral trading system. 
The country is making efforts to comply with its WTO commitments, though we would encourage 
further efforts in this regard, particularly around  outstanding notifications. Canada encourages Fiji 
to continue to play an active role in the WTO.  
4.84.   We look forward to continued close cooperation with Fiji to strengthen the WTO , and beyond 
the WTO, we hope to deepening our relationship with Fiji, and consistent with Canada's  Indo Pacific 
Strategy, we are in in the process of opening our first Mission to Fiji, with a diplomat already on the 
ground in Suva.  
4.85.   Before concluding, I would be remiss if I did not make a special mention of the strong and 
constructive work of the small but mighty delegation of Fiji undertakes at the WTO led by its 
Ambassador, your leadership is important and recognized. As Ambassador Mina mentioned, we need 
more of the Fiji's spirit in this house.  
SINGAPORE  
4.86.   Singapore warmly welcomes Fiji 's Deputy Prime  Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, 
SMEs and Communications, the Honourable  Manoa Seru Kamikamica and the Fijian delegation to 
Geneva. We would like to express our appreciation to Fiji for  the comprehensive Government Report 
and statement. We also thank the Chair, Ambassador Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel and the discussant, 
Ambassador George Mina for their insightful statements, as well as the Secretariat for its detailed 
Report. Allow me to make  three points.  
4.87.   First, we commend the Fijian Government for its efforts in stimulating the recovery of the 
Fijian economy, following the enormous challenges posed by COVID -19 and compounded by natural 
disasters. We are glad to hear that the Fijian economy i s on the path to recovery, with an estimated 
15.6% growth in 2022 that is set to continue this year. The pandemic has brought several economic 
and social challenges to the forefront and has highlighted the need for countries to embark on more 
sustainable m odes of development. In this regard, we welcome the implementation of Fiji 's 20-Year 
Development Plan (2017 -2036) based on the two prongs of "Inclusive Socio -Economic Development " 
and "Transformational Strategic Thrusts ", which seeks to promote MSME 's deve lopment, empower 
youth and women, increase resilience to climate change, and build an environmentally sustainable 
economy, amongst others. We also commend Fiji 's efforts in undertaking Customs moderni zation 
reforms, including the digital and organi zational  transformation of the Fiji Revenue and Customs 
Service, which will enable Fiji to harness digitali zation opportunities and meet future challenges of 
increased traffic and trade. We note that as of September  2022, Fiji had fulfilled 97.1% of its 
implementa tion commitments under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This 
demonstrates Fiji 's commitment to its obligations under the TFA, and we look forward to Fiji 's 
implementation of the two remaining commitments, to bring Fiji towards the full implement ation of 
the TFA.  
4.88.   Second, Singapore looks forward to enhancing our bilateral relations and economic ties with 
Fiji. In 2022, bilateral trade between Singapore and Fiji saw an almost 95% year -on-year growth, 
amounting to more than USD  543 million. During the review period, Singapore was Fiji 's largest 
source of imports in Asia, making up approximately 18.2% of Fiji 's total merchandise imports, and WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
- 22 - 
 
  representing 97.4% of Fiji 's total imports of petroleum oils. As a fellow small island developing state  
(SIDS), Singapore has also provided training through the Singapore Cooperation Programme (SCP) 
to more than 1,000  Fijian officials in the areas of economic development, finance, and public 
administration, amongst others. We look forward to building on the  more-than-50 years of bilateral 
relations between Singapore and Fiji, to deepen our economic cooperation in shared priorities such 
as trade and investment, tourism, information and communications technology (ICT) and digital 
connectivity. In this regard, we have submitted a question relating to Fiji 's plans for the digital 
economy, and we would like to thank Fiji for its timely and detailed response.  
4.89.   Third, Singapore and Fiji share a common commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading 
system as embo died by the WTO. As small states that are particularly vulnerable to climate change 
and rising sea levels, we also share a deep interest in addressing climate change through concerted 
international efforts. In this regard, we commend Fiji 's participation i n the environmental initiatives 
at the WTO, such as in Trade and Environmental Sustainability, as well as Plastics Pollution and 
Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade. In the same spirit, we would like to urge Fiji to ratify 
the WTO Agreement on Fishe ries Subsidies, which will complement the Government 's efforts in 
implementing sustainable fisheries management and combatting illegal, unreported, and 
unregulated fishing. Likewise, we would like to encourage Fiji to consider joining the Joint Statement 
Initiative on E -Commerce as well as the Information Technology Agreement (ITA), to complement 
Fiji's efforts in digital transformation.  
4.90.   In closing, I would like to acknowledge the valuable contributions that Ambassador 
Luke Daunivalu  and his team at the Fijian Mission have made to the WTO. We wish Fiji a successful 
fourth Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.91.   The United  States is pleased to welcome Deputy Prime  Minister Kamikamica and the rest of 
the Fijian delegation to the fourth Trade  Policy Review of Fiji. We appreciate the opportunity to 
review the significant work that Fiji has undertaken since its last Review.  
4.92.   The United  States values its economic relationship with Fiji, and will continue our work to 
strengthen our commercial relat ionship, including under the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework, the 
United  States -Pacific  Islands Trade and Investment Dialog ue, as well as through our bilateral Trade 
and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA).  
4.93.   The United  States commends the progress that t he Fiji has made since the last Trade Policy 
Review in 2016. For example, as noted in the Secretariat Report, Fiji ratified the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation (TFA) in 2017 and subsequently notified its related commitments to the WTO. 
Additionally, Fiji h as implemented several customs modernization reforms, including a digital and 
organizational transformation of the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service to meet future challenges of 
increased traffic and trade, as well as to take advantage of digitalization opp ortunities. We would 
also like to recognize that as of September  2022, Fiji had fulfilled 97.1 % of its TFA implementation 
commitments.  
4.94.   We appreciate Fiji 's constructive engagement in the WTO negotiations on fisheries subsidies.  
We hope to work together in  the continuing negotiations to pursue additional, ambitious disciplines, 
and we would urge Fiji 's support for promoting greater transparency with respect to the use of forced 
labour on fishing vessels.  In addition, we would encourage Fiji, as well as othe r WTO Members, to 
promptly accept the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and allow its entry into force as soon as 
possible.  
4.95.   We welcome Fiji 's leadership advancing the Dialogue on Plastic Pollution and environmentally 
sustainable plastics trade and look forward to continuing to work with you. Fiji 's support and 
participation in the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions demonstrates the 
importance of trade and environmental issues to developed and developing country Members. Fiji 's 
support and participation in these informal dialogues demonstrates the critical role that trade, and 
the WTO, plays in addressing pressing environmental challenges. We look forward to maturing the 
TESSD work back into the work of the Regular Committees, in cluding the Committee on Trade and 
Environment.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.96.   We note that Fiji continues to work to fulfil its WTO commitments, as reflected in our 
observations through our advance written questions. For example, the United  States is interested in 
learning more about F iji's plans to submit its outstanding notifications to the WTO, including those 
on agriculture, anti -dumping measures, subsidies and countervailing measures, and import 
licensing. Notifications are an important responsibility of WTO Membership so traders a nd other 
Members can understand Fiji 's laws and regulations affecting trade.  
4.97.   We recognize the trade -related challenges Fiji faces, including vulnerability to climate change, 
as well as the impact of recent exogenous shocks on the Fijian economy, including  the COVID -19 
pandemic and multiple devastating natural disasters. Despite these challenges, we commend Fiji 's 
efforts to: promote investment, trade and economic growth; enhance opportunities for micro, small 
and medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs); facilitat e ease of doing business; improve financial 
accountability, good governance, and public expenditure management; work toward s international 
economic integration; and engage a wide cross -section of stakeholders from the private sector, civil 
society, academi a, as well as labour and industry leaders. We urge Fiji to continue its regulatory 
reform efforts to facilitate trade and investment.  
4.98.   We commend Fiji for its commitment to the trade policy review process. We look forward to 
continued engagement, both bila terally and within the WTO, to strengthen our commercial 
relationship.  
ARGENTINA  
4.99.   Quisiéramos asociarnos a los Miembros que han dado la bienvenida a la delegación de Fiji, 
encabezada por el Honorable Manoa  Seru Kamikamica, Primer Ministro Adjunto y Ministro de 
Comercio, Cooperativas, Pymes, y Comunicaciones.  
4.100.   Agradecemos, al mismo tiempo, los informes elaborados por el gobierno de Fiji y por la 
Secretaría, así como al Embajador George  Mina por sus valiosos comentarios. Estos elementos nos 
han proporci onado la información necesaria para enriquecer nuestra comprensión de las políticas, 
prácticas comerciales y entorno económico de Fiji.  
4.101.   Hemos tomado nota de los avances normativos de Fiji durante el período objeto de examen 
relacionadas con el comercio, l as inversiones, las aduanas, la propiedad intelectual y el turismo, 
entre otros.  
4.102.   Notamos con preocupación que, según señala el informe de la Secretaría citando al 
Banco  Mundial, la exposición de Fiji al cambio climático amenaza con socavar los objetivos de  
desarrollo a largo plazo del país, enunciados en su actual Plan de Desarrollo. No obstante , felicitamos 
a Fiji por las iniciativas existente para hacer frente a los desafíos que plantea el cambio climático.  
4.103.   Argentina ve con satisfacción la resiliencia de  la economía de Fiji demostrada luego del ciclón 
tropical Winston en 2016 y esperamos que esta misma resiliencia le permita recuperarse plenamente 
y pronto de los efectos de la pandemia de COVID -19. 
4.104.   También felicitamos a Fiji por sus objetivos de política comercial que apuntan a transformar 
el país en una economía dinámica, diversificada y competitiva a escala internacional, impulsada por 
las exportaciones y orientada al crecimiento. Asimismo, Argentina destaca el enfoque puesto por las 
políticas de Fiji en  el desarrollo de las mipymes, el empoderamiento de las mujeres y la juventud, 
el aumento de la resiliencia frente al cambio climático y la construcción de una economía sustentable.  
4.105.   Agradecemos a Fiji, y en particular a su Embajador Luke  Daunivalu y su eq uipo en Ginebra 
por su participación activa en las negociaciones relacionadas a las subvenciones a la pesca.  
4.106.   Coincidimos con Fij en el enfoque de prohibición de ciertas subvenciones, y vemos con 
interés la propuesta que ha presentado, que incluye adicionar  a la disciplina un límite monetario o 
CAP. En los últimos tiempos hemos mantenido reuniones bilaterales ya que con Fiji compartimos el 
mismo objetivo: Lograr un acuerdo ambicioso, con una disciplina rigurosa, con un TED apropiado, 
considerando que el Acue rdo deberá evitar que las flotas de gran altura que operan a miles de 
kilómetros de las costas de sus Estados de bandera continúen, a través del uso de subsidios, 
depredando los recursos marinos.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.107.   Hacemos uso de esta oportunidad para reiterar nuestra intenc ión de trabajar en conjunto 
con toda la Membresía en el proceso de reforma de la Organización a fin de fortalecer sus 
capacidades para dar respuesta a los desafíos presentes y futuros del comercio internacional, para 
crear un sistema multilateral de comerc io más justo y que atienda las necesidades de los países en 
desarrollo.  
4.108.   Por último, y en el marco de este examen de política comercial, hemos consultado a Fiji por 
su Marco de Crecimiento Verde. Agradecemos las respuestas, las cuales están siendo debidame nte 
estudiadas por nuestros y nuestras colegas en Buenos  Aires.  
4.109.   Además de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de intercambiar 
consideraciones sobre prácticas comerciales de Fiji, permítanos señalar, una vez más, la relevancia 
de este  ejercicio de transparencia en todos sus aspectos y desear a sus autoridades una exitosa 
conclusión del presente examen.  
JAPAN  
4.110.   Japan warmly welcomes the delegation of Fiji, headed by the Honourable Deputy 
Prime  Minister Kamikamica . Japan would also like to  thank Ambassador Daunivalu for his open 
contribution to the WTO. I thank the WTO Secretariat in preparing the comprehensive reports for 
today 's Review, and I also thank Ambassador George  Mina for his role as the discussant.  
4.111.   Fiji is an important partner fo r Japan in the Asia -Pacific region, with Japan and Fiji celebrating 
the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2020. Bilateral relations between 
Japan and Fiji have been further deepened since the discussion between Prime  Minister  
Kishida  Fumio and then Prime  Minister Bainimaram a and the visit of Foreign  Minister 
Hayashi  Yoshimasa to Fiji in 2022, followed by the visit of State Minister for Foreign Affairs, 
Takei  Shunsuke, to Fiji this year.  
4.112.   Japan commends Fiji for its strong macroeconomic recovery, which is estimated to recover 
by 15.6 % in 2022, despite the significant economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic and natural 
disasters during the review period.  
4.113.   Taking this opportunity, I would like to highlight a few points on Fiji's trade policy.  First, 
regarding the multilateral trading system and WTO, Japan is grateful for Fiji 's contributions toward s 
strengthening the multilateral trading system since its accession to the WTO, most recently through 
its contributions to MC12 and the negotiations for the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.  
4.114.   Japan also commends Fiji 's contribution to discussions on environment -related initiatives, in 
particular as a co -coordinator of the Informal Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally 
Sustainable Plastics Trade. Japan is encouraged by Fiji's strong interest and contribution in these 
issues, recognizing its remarkable presence as an ocean nation.  
4.115.   Second, as regards the investment environment  and energy sector , Japan notes Fiji 's efforts 
to improve its investment environment through enacting the new Investment Act and creating 
opportunities for micro, small and medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs) . Fiji enact ed an Investment 
Act 2021, which notably stipulates National Treatment and mos t favoure d nation treatment for 
investment, and the prohibition of compulsory or arbitrary acquisition of property by the 
Government.  As regards MSMEs, Japan commends Fiji's efforts such as the establishment of the 
new Central Coordinating Agency (MSME Fiji) and la unching its policy framework in 2020. As MSMEs 
account for significant share on Fiji's economy. We believe such efforts will lead to and expansion of 
foreign investment and trade in goods and services.  
4.116.   Japan and Fiji have a close relationship on investmen t. As of April  2021, 24  Japanese 
companies have been operating in Fiji. Also, as mentioned in the Secretariat's Report, two Japanese 
entities have invested in Energy Fiji Limited, a public enterprise that supplies electricity to Fiji.  In the 
energy sector,  we are also aware that the Cabinet of Fiji approved the National Energy Policy in May 
of this year, which is commendable for its aims to shift from dependence on imported fossil fuels to 
low-carbon and renewable energy.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.117.   Third, regarding bilateral economic  relations, Japan has been cooperating with Fiji and other 
Pacific Island countries through the Pacific Islands Leaders ' Meeting (PALM) and other fora, 
respecting their own agendas and taking their needs  into account , by utilizing Japan 's strengths for 
promoting sustainable and resilient economic development in each country . In this context, Japan 
has provided financial assistance of up to JPY  20 billion in total through emergency loans to Fiji to 
support its economic recovery  from the COVID -19 pandemic. In addition, a project to reconstruct 
the Tamavua -i-wai Bridge is underway to strengthen the country's resilience against natural 
disasters and to enhance its transportation capacity.  
4.118.   In April of this year, direct flights between Japan and Fiji resumed. Fij i is a popular 
destination for Japanese tourists, and these direct flights are expected to increase the flow of people 
between the two countries and contribute to Fiji's economy by revitalizing Fiji's air transport and 
tourism services. Fiji has also annou nced its participation in the Expo  2025 Osaka -Kansai, Japan, 
and we look forward to working together for deepening the economic ties between Japan and Fiji . 
4.119.   Finally, on regional trade, Japan is grateful for Fiji's active contribution in regional trade 
activities including the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework  (IPEF). We would like to continue to 
cooperate with Fiji in achieving sustainable and inclusive economic  growth in the region . 
4.120.   To conclude, w e look forward to continued cooperation with Fiji to achieve fruitful results at 
MC13 next year. We wish Fiji a successful and productive fourth  Trade Policy Review.  
MAURITIUS  
4.121.   Mauritius joins other delegations in welcom ing the delegation of Fiji led by 
H.E. the Honourable  Manoa  Seru Kamikamica Deputy Prime  Minister and Minister for Trade, 
Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications . We congratulate Fiji  for its fourth Trade Policy Review . 
Mauritius would like to congratulate A mbassador Mina for his usual incisiveness, but also for bringing 
Fiji folklore to the fore today.  
4.122.   Much binds Mauritius and Fiji as two upper middle -income SIDS with a high human 
development index but with many challenges over which they have little control  like Climate Change 
and extreme weather events. These continue to affect our economies at unexpected moments and 
serve as a reminder of our inherent vulnerabilities.  
4.123.   Because the levels of trade of SIDS are not a very high percentage of world trade, the 
concerns of SIDS are often overlooked in multilateral discussions. Yet it is important that Members 
understand the realities of SIDS so as to ensure that multilateral frameworks cater for the unique 
situation of these Members.  
4.124.   Most SIDS like Fiji and Maurit ius are net food importing developing countries, dependent on 
a narrow basket of exports, fighting to attract significant FDI due to the size of the economy and 
challenges linked to geographical isolation.  
4.125.   Fiji has risen to many of these challenges succes sfully and we commend it for its 
development plan that focuses on promoting MSMEs, empowering youth and women, and building 
an environmentally sustainable economy. We were particularly impressed to find out that more than 
50% of Fiji 's electricity is gener ated from sustainable sources and this shows the positive effects of 
the tax incentives, price regulations, and subsidies that the Government of Fiji had introduced.  
4.126.   We were also pleased to note that Fiji's National Development Plan and National Export 
Strategy aiming to promote sustainable growth in export competitiveness, value addition, and 
diversification. We also recogni ze Fiji's efforts to attract FDI through the adoption of the Investment 
Act 2021 but like Fiji, we know that legislation and providing  favourable conditions, whilst important, 
are not sufficient in themselves.  
4.127.   We also welcome the changes that Fiji made in intellectual property rights legislation, 
although not yet in effect. We note that, as is the case for Mauritius, the services sector is a 
significant contributor to Fiji's economy, with tourism being the largest  provider of services , both 
our countries have moved from being sugar islands, big producers of sugar cane, to being 
services -dominated islands . WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.128.   We commend Fiji for all the measu res it has taken to comply with its WTO commitments, its 
support of the multilateral trading system and of free trade. We are both active participants in the 
OACPS and as such have a close relationship with the EU.  
4.129.   The severe impact on the tourism industr y in Fiji due to the COVID -19 pandemic 
in 2020-2021 and the three cyclones during that period led to a contraction of the economy. 
However, Fiji did not have recourse to protectionist trade policies. We commend it for this approach. 
Initiatives taken by Fi ji subsequently have led to expected growth rate of 15.6% in 2022. Fiji is back 
on a growth tangent as tourism has picked up significantly.  
4.130.   We welcome the active engagement of Fiji in all discussions at the WTO and in particular on 
fisheries subsidies wher e it has made constructive proposals which we fully share and support. 
Fisheries is one of the mainstays of the economies of small island states. This sector, which has yet 
to be developed to its potential is challenged by unfair competition from the massi ve subsidies which 
large fishing nations have been providing leading to overcapacity and over supply.  
4.131.   We also welcome Fiji 's efforts to enhance regional integration through its participation in the 
Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA).  
4.132.   We wish Fiji much progress in the years to come and a very successful T rade Policy Review . 
JAMAICA  
4.133.   Jamaica extends a warm welcome to the delegation of Fiji to the fourth Review of its trade 
policies and practices. We commend the Honourable Manoa  Seru Kamikamica, Deputy Prime Minister 
and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications ; head of delegation and his team 
for their comprehensive Report.  
4.134.   We thank our discussant, Ambassador George Mina for his valuable insights, which provide 
greate r understanding of key aspects of Fiji 's trade policies. My delegation also thanks the Chair and 
the Secretariat for their respective contributions to this exercise.  
4.135.   During the last Trade Policy Review, the Fijian Government was praised for maintaining a 
good economic performance over the review period of 2009 -2016. Jamaica, therefore, welcomes the 
reports that the Government continues to make progress in this area. As highlighted by our 
discussant, Fiji has one of the most developed economies in the Pacif ic, relying heavily on its tourism 
earnings  and trade . The country is also endowed with natural resources, including forest, mineral , 
and fish resources.  
4.136.   However, as a small island developing states (SIDs), Fiji knows all too well the devastating 
impact th at climate change and adverse weather conditions can have on its efforts to achieve 
economic growth and sustainable development. As reflected in its Report, both the COVID -19 
pandemic and the passage of three cyclones negatively impacted the country 's posi tive economic 
trajectory. These resulted in the contraction of GDP by 17% in 2020, and a further reduction of 5.1% 
in 2021.  
4.137.   We are, therefore, encouraged by the indications that the country is on a path of strong 
recovery – recording robust growth of 15.6 % in 2022. This recovery is buoyed by the continued 
growth in tourism related activities; transportation and storage; and business service sectors. 
We urge support for the Government 's efforts to sustain this progress.  
4.138.   Employing a multisectoral approach, J amaica appreciates Fiji 's efforts to create a stable 
investment environment, expand trade and enhance the performance of major sectors of the 
economy. We view favourably the various reforms being implemented by the Government, including 
its Investment Poli cy Statement; Trade Policy Framework 2015 -2025, as well as those that seek to 
address the challenges that would limit the impact of its efforts to increase production and 
productivity in agriculture, especially in rural areas. The Government 's efforts to m eet its 
international environment commitments is being strengthened through the implementation of a 
National Development Plan (2017 -2036), as well as the five-year Emission Reduction Programme 
Agreement with the World  Bank.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.139.   Fiji also has a well -developed fisheries sector, contributing approximately 10% of its total 
export earnings and affecting the lives of 75% of its population. Given concerns related to the 
sustainable development of the industry, we support the Government 's implementation of i ts 
National Ocean Policy, and the ratification of the Port State Measures Agreement to prevent, deter 
and eliminate IUU caught fish landing in its ports.  
4.140.   These efforts must be encouraged, as countries like Fiji require the necessary policy space, 
supporte d by appropriate global trade rules, to accomplish their sustainable development goals.  
4.141.   Jamaica is pleased by Fiji 's commitment to strengthening the multilateral trading system, as 
demonstrated by its high engagement in the work of the WTO. Fiji is an act ive Member of several 
negotiating groups including the African, Caribbean and Pacific States (ACP) Group. Jamaica values 
its active engagement in and its constructive contributions to the Fisheries Subsidies negotiations, 
WTO Reform, Plastics Pollution and  Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade, and the successful 
conclusion of an Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies at MC12. Jamaica looks forward to continuing our 
close collaboration and partnership with the delegation, so ably led by Ambassador Luke Dauni valu. 
4.142.   We take note that the Fijian delegation has provided responses to Members ' questions 
related to amendments of trade -related law; Fiji's expectations and interests to the WTO Joint 
Initiatives , and its priorities and objectives for the MC13. My delega tion looks forward to any 
additional insights that the Government may provide during today 's exchange.  
4.143.   On a final note, as 2023 marks 44 years of diplomatic relations between Jamaica and Fiji, 
we convey our commitment to further strengthening of these tie s. We reiterate  our best wishes to 
the delegation for a successful fourth Trade Policy Review.  
TRINIDAD  AND TOBAGO  
4.144.   Trinidad  and Tobago is pleased to participate in the fourth  Trade Policy Review of Fiji. 
We join others in welcoming to Geneva, and to the W TO, the h ead of delegation,  the Honourable 
Mr Manoa Seru Kamikamica, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs and 
Communications of Fiji ; as well as all other capital -based officials who have travelled to Geneva for 
this review.  
4.145.   We extend our best wishes for a productive Review. We also commend Ambassador 
Mr Luke Daunivalu, Mr Vueti May and the rest of the team for their sound and valuable contributions 
here at the WTO , not least of all on fisheries subsidies, on the development dimension, including 
special and differential treatment, on trade and the environment and on small and vulnerable 
economies, among other key files. In addition, we take this opportunity to highl ight Fiji 's vocal 
advocacy in wider international Geneva on the particular circumstances and challenges of small 
island developing states, including at the WHO, ILO , and UNCTAD.  
4.146.   In addition, we applaud you, Chair, on your able stewardship of this meeting. We also 
recogni ze the diligent efforts of the Secretariat and Fiji in the preparation of their respective reports 
ahead of this review. Kudos to you as well, Ambassador Mina, for your focused, insightful approach 
in embracing the role of discussant.  
4.147.   Fiji's engagement at the WTO and its participation in global trade evidence a clear 
commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core. Here in this 
house, and despite evident constraints, Fiji continues to make valuable contribu tions to our 
deliberations and negotiations, not least of all within the contexts of the Pacific Group, the ACP Group 
and the SVE Group. Within the ACP Group, in particular, we value the contributions and guidance of 
Fiji on development issues, but also on  agriculture and fisheries subsidies negotiations. My 
delegation recalls the focused and resolute approach of Fiji at MC12 and the insistence that 
disciplines on overcapacity and overfishing must align with the mandate and secure the interests of 
our peopl e. We note that Fiji has been robust and constructive in its engagement in the second 
phase of negotiations, putting forward a proposal that seeks to move us closer towards fulfilment of 
our mandate and recently providing Members with a proposed legal text . Fiji's outsized, meaningful 
and constructive contributions at the WTO on fisheries subsidies, development, plastics pollution and 
trade and environment more broadly, among other areas, are truly worthy of recognition and WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  commendation. We also applaud Fij i's noteworthy achievements relating to implementation of the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.148.   Recovery has been a key point of focus for Fiji since the last Review, including recovery from 
the impacts of the 2016 tropical cyclone and, shortly thereafter, re covery from the slowdown in 
tourism and supply chain disruptions, among other key challenges triggered by the COVID -19 
pandemic. Vulnerability to exogenous shocks, the challenges associated with classification as an 
upper middle -income country, remoteness,  high transport costs, challenges relating to market 
access and penetration, small size, commodity dependence, climate -related vulnerability, limited 
range of merchandise exports, limited engagement in global merchandise and services trade, lack 
of wherewi thal to harness the benefits of the digital economy – these are all challenges with which 
Fiji continues to grapple resolutely, including through its approach to trade policy.  
4.149.   This is the context in which we commend policy  and decision -makers in Fiji for their strategic 
approaches and their commitment to ensuring that Fiji remains open to international trade and to 
building a more  inclusive and sustainable multilateral trading system.  
4.150.   We recogni ze key reforms pursued since the last Review, aimed at enhanc ing opportunities 
available to MSMEs, improving the ease of doing business and strengthening financial accountability, 
good governance, and public expenditure management. Having undergone a change in 
administration late last year, we recogni ze the ongoing efforts of the Government of Fiji to review 
the National Development Plan and National Export Strategy and applaud ongoing economic and 
export diversification efforts aimed at securing the wellbeing of the people of Fiji. With the 
agriculture, fisheries, m anufacturing, and services sectors, including financial services, all 
contributing significantly to GDP, there is a viable platform in place for effective diversification and 
building resilience, including through the opportunities presented by digitali zation and engagement 
in cross -border digital trade.  
4.151.   As a fellow Commonwealth member, OACPS member State, small and vulnerable economy 
(SVE) and small island developing State (SIDS), Fiji is a key partner of Trinidad  and Tobago in many 
multilateral spaces and  processes. Our trading relations are also robust, with Fiji enjoying a trade 
surplus with Trinidad  and Tobago and with there being evident scope to build upon existing trade in 
cane molasses and mineral waters. As small island economies with similar circu mstances and 
challenges, both Fiji and Trinidad  and Tobago strongly value regional integration and derive benefit 
from key RTAs. Trinidad  and Tobago identifies with Fiji 's efforts to advance its development -related 
interests and, in this regard, wishes to endorse Fiji 's call for the support of the WTO with regard to 
better integration into global trade and addressing supply -side constraints, including through the 
provision of technical assistance and capacity -building. Reference is made in this regard to the 2015 
Nairobi Ministerial Decision on substantially and meaningfully addressing the needs of SVEs in every 
area of WTO work.  
4.152.   In closing, Trinidad  and Tobago applauds Fiji on its evident commitment to an ope n, 
transparent, rules -based multilateral trading system. We congratulate the delegation in advance on 
the completion of a successful Review.  
KENYA  ON BEHALF OF THE ACP GROUP  
4.153.   On behalf of the ACP  Group, I wish to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Fiji, led 
by the Honourable Manoa  Seru Kamikamica, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, 
Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications, to its fourth  Trade Policy Review. Ambassador 
Luke Daunivalu's engagement  and leadership along with the robust engag ement of Fiji's 
Geneva -based team also cannot go unmentioned . I also thank Ambassador George Mina of Australia 
for his remarks and insights as a discussant, as well as the WTO Secretariat for their detailed Report.  
4.154.   At the outset, we acknowledge Fiji 's dedi cation in championing the collective positions held 
by the ACP  Group at the WTO, as well as its advocacy for small island developing states within the 
Pacific region.  
4.155.   The ACP  Group applauds several initiatives undertaken by Fiji during the review period. Fiji's 
continuous endeavours to remain open to international trade and its firm commitment to the 
rules-based multilateral trading system are noteworthy. Fiji clearly views trade as an engine for WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  growth and prosperity, while seizing every opportunity at ho me, in the Pacific region and globally, 
for progress. Fiji is indeed an important trading partner in the WTO and a key enabler for regional 
and multilateral cooperation. In this regard, the ACP  Group welcomes Fiji 's leading work towards the 
Pacific regiona l integration as exemplified by its participation in the Pacific Island Countries Trade 
Agreement (PICTA).  
4.156.   We note Fiji 's economic challenges since 2016, including a small contraction in 2019 after 
nine years of growth. The COVID -19 pandemic severely impac ted Fiji's economy in 2020 and 2021 
due to travel and tourism restrictions, along with three cyclones. This led to a record drop of 17% 
in output in 2020 followed by another contraction of 5.1% in 2021. Fiji 's resilience is paving the way 
for the Governmen t's initiatives with the economy making progress towards recovery despite the 
ongoing economic effects of the pandemic. The reopening of international borders and successful 
vaccination targets achieved in December  2021 led to a resurgence in tourism, resu lting in an 
estimated growth rate of 15.6% in 2022. Notwithstanding the economic effects of the pandemic, 
numerous service sectors have seen significant growth as the world recovers. Accommodation and 
food services, transportation and storage, wholesale an d retail trade, and business services, such as 
finance and insurance have all experienced a surge in activity. Between 2016 and 2022, merchandise 
trade in Fiji saw an annual rise of 20.3% in exports, resulting in FDJ 2,323  million, while imports 
increased by a total of 36.9%, reaching FJD 6,599  million.  
4.157.   Fuelled by a renewed objective to strengthen its economy through industry reorientation 
and diversification, Fiji has made strides in its efforts to mitigate external shocks, promote economic 
growth, and suc cessfully reduce unemployment and inflation rates during the review period.  
4.158.   We appreciate the changes that Fiji implemented in 2018, during which the Government 
reformed policies, legislation, and procedures to enhance business efficiency and productivity . 
Reforms included a process review to eliminate redundancies and overlaps, the establishment of an 
online platform for investors, and the repeal of unnecessary laws/processes resulting in improved 
business processes and lower compliance costs.  
4.159.   Fiji has m ade changes to promote investment, trade, and economic growth. The Investment 
Policy Statement sets out the vision, objectives, and principles for investment growth. The Statement 
outlines a pathway for legislative review and reform. To attract "efficiency -seeking" investments, Fiji 
requires policy and strategic change. MSMEs contribute significantly to Fiji's economy but have not 
been fully captured in statistics.  
4.160.   Notwithstanding these milestones, we take this opportunity to draw Members ' attention to 
the unique constraints that Fiji is constantly facing as a small island nation and urge Members to 
support WTO work that promotes the further inclusion of small vulnerable developing countries.  
4.161.   To conclude, the ACP  Group reiterates its support to Fiji and wis hes the delegation a 
successful Trade Policy Review.  
BARBADOS  
4.162.   I am particularly honoured to have been tasked with extending a warm welcome to the 
delegation of Fiji, a fellow small island developing state (SIDS), which is very ably led by the 
Honourable  Mr Manoa Seru Kamikamica, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, 
SMEs and Communications for this their country 's fourth Trade Policy Review.  
4.163.   Minister Kamikamica, we thank you for your very informative and thought -provoking 
opening remarks. It has certainly given us some food for thought as it relates to the inherent realities 
confronting many SIDS on a daily basis. We also wish to thank the discussant,  H.E. Ambassador  
George  Mina (Australia), for his comprehensive analysis and the WTO Secretariat for its usual 
excellent preparations for this review.  
4.164.   The compounding effects of three successive cyclones, the climate crisis, and the COVID -19 
pandemic have taken a significant toll on Fiji's economy and has had a knock -on effect across all of 
its economic sectors. It is therefore concerning that some measures employed by much larger 
countries to support their impacted sectors in the aftermath of such disasters, for example post 
cyclone stimulus packages, have had not onl y served to assist Fiji but has also had a detrimental WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  impact on the countries' fiscal and current balances, increased its stock of public debt and reversed 
some hard -won development gains.  
4.165.   We have certainly taken some solace in that fact owing to Fiji 's sound fiscal and monetary 
management as well as the lifting of COVID restrictions, the country 's economy rebounded by an 
estimated 15.6 % in 2022 after a contraction of 17 % and 5.1 % in 2020 and 2021, respectively.  
4.166.   We have noted that in its current Developme nt Plan, Fiji's strategic vision, has placed 
significant emphasis on promoting the development of micro, small and medium -sized enterprises 
(MSMEs) - the backbone of Fiji 's economy employing 60 % of the Fijian workforce; empowering youth 
and women; building  resilience against climate change and building an environmentally sustainable 
economy. The Government's plan to review the development plan with an aim to chart a path 
towards economic recovery is indeed commendable.  
4.167.   Barbados recogni zes that Fiji, like s o many other SIDS, is on the frontline of the climate 
crisis. The World  Bank's sobering assessment that the country 's exposure to climate change 
threatens to undermine the long -term development objectives is one that we know all too well. We 
therefore appl aud Fiji for its commitment at the national level by recogni zing this in its low emissions 
Development Plan and in 2021 through the adoption of its Climate Change Act which, among other 
things, legally binds Fiji to net -zero carbon emissions by 2050. We ar e pleased to hear that Fiji 's 
careful planning is already bearing fruit as more than half of the electricity generated by the country 
originates from renewable energy resources. The country 's provision of tax incentives and green 
subsidies on environmental ly friendly items and on renewable energy products will also go a long 
way in reali zing this ambitious goal.  
4.168.   The best laid plans are however just that if adequate financing and other technical assistance 
and capacity building is note available to support the implementation of such plans. We urge donors 
and other development partners to work with Fiji to fill the technical and financial assistance gaps 
that exist.  
4.169.   Fiji's stewardship on environmental issues transcends to its commitment to multilateralism 
and the multilateral trading system through its active participation in our work here at the WTO, 
particularly in its advocacy for the nexus between climate change, development , and trade to be 
more actively discussed under WTO agenda.  
4.170.   We commend H.E . Ambass ador Luke  Daunivalu and his team in Geneva for being leaders 
here in this multilateral ecosystem. The Barbados and Fiji Missions here have cooperated on small 
economy matters, on fisheries, on human rights, and more recently as co -chairs on a WHO process 
on SIDS, NCDs, climate change and mental health. Fiji gives meaning to the expression, "small but 
not invisible ". This is why my Ambassador, H.  E. Mr Matthew  Wilson, who is currently chairing a 
meeting in UNCTAD, and hence could not be here, wanted to pass on a special mention of 
congratulations to the delegation. We look forward to our continued collective championing of the 
interests of small island developing states and small vulnerable economies in the WTO and indeed 
across international Geneva.  
4.171.   In closi ng, we wish Fiji a successful conclusion to its fourth Trade Policy Review.  
INDONESIA  
4.172.   First and foremost, Indonesia would like to welcome the Fiji delegation, led by Deputy 
Prime  Minister Manoa  Seru Kamikamica, to their fourth Trade Policy Review. We would also like to 
thank Ambassador George  Mina, who served as a discussant on this policy review, as well as the 
Government of Fiji and the WTO Secretariat for their insightful Report, which reflect Fijian policy on 
international trade cooperation during the review period.  
4.173.   Allow me to also express appreciation to Fiji 's Permanent Mission in Geneva led by 
Ambassador Daunivalu, for their continue and active engagement in the WTO negotiations, especially 
the Fisheries Subsid ies negotiations . 
4.174.   We note that Fiji  has prioritized the development of its agricultural products and agri -food 
preparations as primary export products. However, during this review period the Fijian economy has WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  faced numerous challenges, including the effects of climate change, the COVID -19 pandemic, and 
frequent extreme weather episodes. In this regard, it would be appreciated if the Government could 
outline the programmes that support those primary export products and ensure that they are in 
accordance with Fiji's WTO commitment s. According  to the Secretariat Report, Fiji maintains export 
incentive schemes and other extensive tax incentives . 
4.175.   In addition, we note that the Government of Fiji has undertaken reforms to promote trade 
and investment growth, with one of them focusing on the develop ment of micro, small, and medium 
enterprises. Indonesia would appreciate it if the Government of Fiji could share their strategies for 
supporting MSMEs as a backbone of economic growth.  
4.176.   In terms of bilateral trade, we note that trade and investment relatio ns between Indonesia 
and Fiji have more room to improve and reach their potential, with total trade estimated to be 
around USD 28.7 million in 2021 and USD 41.2 million in 2022. According to our data, there is 
market potential in Fiji for Indonesian export  products such as flat -rolled products of iron or non -alloy 
steel, cement, polyacetals, and tissue. In this regard, we hope that Indonesia and Fiji can collaborate 
to promote business -to-business contact while also improving trade facilitation and market a ccess.  
4.177.   To conclude, we would like to wish Fiji a successful Trade Policy Review.  
SAMOA  ON BEHALF OF THE PACIFIC GROUP  
4.178.   Bula vinaka , Talofa  lava, good morning. From your Pacific family here in Geneva, I extend a 
very warm welcome, to the Hon ourable  Manoa  Kamikamica, Deputy Prime  Minister of Fiji; and 
Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications; and members of the Fiji delegation. 
Thank you for your comprehensive remarks, Deputy Prime  Minister, taking us through Fiji 's trade 
landscape and priorit ies. Thank you also to Ambassador Mina, for your Bula-inspired contribution as 
the discussant of Fiji 's Trade Policy Review.  
4.179.   I make this statement on behalf of the Pacific Group Members of the WTO. I acknowledge 
the active engagement of Fiji in the WTO, a nd as part of our Pacific family, the ACP group, through 
H.E. Ambassador Daunivalu, Mr Vueti May, and the Fiji mission in Geneva. We congratulate the Fiji 
Government for the quality of its Report as well as that of the WTO Secretariat.  
4.180.   The Pacific Group notes, the positive growth achieved by Fiji. Particularly, the strong rebound 
of 15.6% in 2022 from  the decline largely due to the COVID -19 pandemic. The rebound was 
attributed to the resumption in tourism and the early opening of international borders in 2022. And 
as the discussant  referred, we were fortunate to experience that welcoming Fijian hospita lity last 
November with the WTO Director -General.  
4.181.   The Pacific  Group commends Fiji for its commitment towards a liberal trade policy regime 
and the pursuit for structural and economic reforms since the last Review in 2016. In particular, we 
highlight the f ollowing four reforms:  
• first, the adoption of the Trade Policy Framework 2015 -2025 to position Fiji as an 
internationally competitive, dynamic and vibrant economy serving as the hub of the Pacific;  
• second, the establishment of a dedicated unit for MSMEs i n the Ministry of Trade in 2019 
and a new MSME policy framework launched in 2020. These aim to support the growth of 
the MSMEs and increase its contribution to the economy, noting that MSMEs contribute 18% 
of GDP and 37% of employment ; 
• third, the streamlin ing of investment approvals through the new Investment Act 2020, the 
modernization of business processes and digitalization of Government 's business and 
investment approvals systems as well as business and tax registrations ; and  
• fourth is the reforms to se ctoral policies such as in agriculture, fisheries and forestry as well 
diversification into new sectors and explore investment in renewable energy, ICT, business 
process outsourcing (BPOs) as well as the audio visual  industry .  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.182.   Fiji is also participating al ongside Pacific Island countries in regional trade agreements such 
as the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA), the MSG Trade Agreement as well as the 
Economic Partnership Agreements with the EU and the United  Kingdom. It is noted that Fiji is seeking 
to enhance its global integration including through the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). As 
an important regional player, we also urge Fiji to consider joining PACER  Plus and enhance the 
regional market.  
4.183.   Beyond the region, Fiji is also play ing an active role in the WTO including in the Pacific  Group, 
the ACP and the SVEs. And as we are aware in this house, Fiji 's leadership and perseverance in 
shaping the outcome of the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement at MC12; and Fiji 's contribution to the 
menu of elements in our work to discipline subsidies on overcapacity and overfishing.  
4.184.   The ability of Fiji, and small island developing states, to generate growth depends on an 
open, transparent and equitable rules -based multilateral trading system. As refle cted in Fiji 's Report 
and the remarks by the Deputy Prime  Minister, the impacts of climate change and frequent natural 
disasters remain a significant challenge. The frequency and intensity of these disasters have 
subjected Fiji, the Pacific and small islan d states, to a continuous cycle of rebuilding of infrastructure 
and productive sectors from one disaster to the next. These are also contributing to increasing levels 
of debt. The multilateral rules of the WTO should therefore be responsive to the trade an d 
development challenges faced by small vulnerable economies like Fiji.  
4.185.   In conclusion, the Pacific  Group commends Fiji's active participation in the WTO and the 
shared pursuit of an open and equitable trading environment. We recognize the challenges Fiji faces 
and stand in solidarity, supporting its efforts to overcome these obstacles. The Pacific  Group also 
appeals to development partners and donors to assist Fiji with the implementation of the remaining 
reforms and in building its capacit y, through aid for trade and technical assistance, to achieve its 
trade and economic policy objectives.  
4.186.   We wish Fiji a successful Trade Policy Review.  
ECUADOR  
4.187.   Mi delegación da la bienvenida a la delegación de Fiji, presidida por el Sr. Manoa 
Kamikamica, Primer Ministro Adjunto y Ministro de Comercio, Cooperativas, Pymes, y 
Comunicaciones  de Fiji; y extiende un afectuoso  saludo al apreciado colega y amigo , Embajador 
Luke Daunivalu,  Representante Permanente de Fiji ante la OMC.  
4.188.   Agradecemos al Go bierno de Fiji y a la Secretaría por los informes  presentados para este 
examen, así como a las oportunas observaciones y  comentarios del ponente, Embajador 
George  Mina.  
4.189.   Quiero empezar felicitando al Gobierno de Fiji por el buen manejo sanitario  de la crisi s 
causada por la COVID -19 y otros desastres naturales. Como se  evidencia del informe, estos eventos 
golpearon fuertemente su economía,  resultando en una caída del 17% en la producción en 2020, 
que fue seguida  por una nueva contracción del 5,1% en 2021.  
4.190.   Las acertadas acciones gubernamentales han permitido que hoy la economía  de Fiji transite 
por un camino de recuperación. Ya en 2022 , el país registró un  15,6% de crecimiento, y la situación 
permitió la reapertura de fronteras y con  ella la reactivación del tu rismo, una de sus principales 
fuentes de ingresos.  
4.191.   Asimismo, el informe nos permite ver la visión estratégica del Gobierno de  Fiji sobre los 
temas comerciales, con muchos de los cuales coincidimos en su  relevancia para los países en 
desarrollo, como es la promoción de las  mipymes, el empoderamiento de los jóvenes y las mujeres, 
o la construcción  de una economía ambientalmente sostenible.  
4.192.   Ecuador reconoce el liderazgo de Fiji en materia de comercio, ambiente y  desarrollo 
sostenible. Fiji y Ecuador, coordinan  junto con Australia, Barbados,  China y Marruecos, el Diálogo 
por Contaminación por Plásticos, qué hoy tiene  76 Miembros  y trabaja hacia resultados concretos 
para la Decimotercera Conferencia  Ministerial,  contribuyendo desde la perspectiva del comercio  a la 
respuesta global a la crisis  sanitaria y ambiental que provoca la contaminación por plásticos.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.193.   Ambos países participamos activamente en los debates hacia la eliminación de subsidios  
dañinos para el medio ambiente. Reconocemos el liderazgo de Fiji en materia  de protección de 
océanos, a nivel global.   
4.194.   Señor Presidente, estoy muy impresionado por un artículo que he leído el día de hoy en el 
New York Times " Extreme Heat Will Change Us ", que presenta los severos desafíos para millones de 
personas en sus vidas diarias, en su trabajo, en el mundo del comercio, fruto del incremento de la 
temperatura del planeta en los años que vienen. El cambio climático es una urgencia, y desde el 
comercio te nemos que aportar con respuestas. Fiji también ha sido vocal en la lucha contra la crisis 
climática. Ecuador comparte la preocupación respecto de esta urgencia ambiental y —por ello — 
junto a Nueva  Zelandia, la Unión  Europea y Ken ya, promueve la Coalición d e Ministros de Comercio 
sobre el Clima, iniciativa que a la fecha cuenta ya con 58  países y a la que me permito invitar a Fiji 
y al Ministro Kamikamica a fin de que considere sumarse a la misma.  
4.195.   Asimismo, con Fiji compartimos el compromiso con el sistema m ultilateral de  comercio y 
participamos activamente en negociaciones que se llevan  adelante en esta materia, en especial 
aquellas enfocadas en temas de  agricultura y pesca.  Los productos agrícolas son un importante 
componente de la balanza comercial de ambo s países, gracias a sectores privados eficientes. Es por 
ello que, para nosotros, la eliminación de los subsidios que puedan causar distorsión en los mercados 
agrícolas es fundamental.  
4.196.   Valoramos y compartimos el enfoque de Fiji en el proceso de negociacion es de subsidios a 
la pesca, particularmente la necesidad de proteger a la pesca  artesanal y contar con un TED efectivo 
de acuerdo que permita implementar  este principio en atención a las realidades de los países en 
desarrollo.  
4.197.   Deseo terminar mi intervenció n augurando a Fiji un exitoso examen de sus políticas 
comerciales.  
INDIA  
4.198.   It is a great pleasure for India to participate in the fourth Trade Policy Review of Fiji and to 
welcome the delegation led by H .E. the Deputy Prime  Minister and Minister for Trade, C ooperatives, 
SMEs and Communications ; and also H .E. the Ambassador  and Permanent Representative of Fiji, 
Mr Luke Daunivalu. W e would like to thank the Fijian Government and the Secretariat for their 
excellent reports prepared for the Review.  Allow me to al so thank the discussant, our dear friend, 
H.E. Ambassador George  Mina for his spirited, passionate , and insightful remarks . 
4.199.   India and Fiji enjoy  close partnership underpinned by historical linkages and longstanding 
strong people -to-people connections, which provide an important link between our two countries . 
Fiji is at the heart of the Pacific  Ocean and therefore, an important partner for India in our collective 
endeavour of a free, open, inclusive, secure , and peaceful Indo-Pacific region . 
4.200.   Prime  Minister Modi's visit to Fiji in 2014 was a watershed moment not only for India -Fiji 
relations but also India's relations with all Pacific  Island countries.  During the visit both countries 
entered into new areas of cooperation and partnership, the first meeting of the Forum for 
India-Pacific Islands cooperation was also held during that time.  
4.201.   Over the years, as a major development partner of Fiji, India has been privileged to support 
Fiji in its nation -building efforts across key sectors and also in  the area of capacity -building.  
4.202.   Recently India's External Affairs Minister, Dr  Jaishankar , visited Fiji in February this year . 
During this visit  the Visa Waiver Agreement between the two countries was concluded, this will help 
in ease of mobility . We are a lso grateful to Fiji for hosting the 12th World Hindi Conference in 
February  2023. 
4.203.   India is also working to deepen its engagement with Fiji through the framework of the Forum 
for India -Pacific  Island s Cooperation that encompasses development assistance ini tiatives and 
cooperation project in various fields, including climate change, create economy IT, community 
development projects, capacity building , and sharing of expertise . WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.204.   Similarly, India is also working with Fiji through the Framework of Pacific Small Island 
Developing States (PS IDS) and, in this regard, we would like to recall our Prime  Minister's interaction 
at first of its kind with the leaders of the Pacific small island developing States, in September  2019 
at New  York on the margins of UNGA , and th e India -Pacific  Island Sustainable Development 
Conference, organized by India in S uva in May  2017. 
4.205.   We also take this up opportunity to thank Fiji for being one of the first funding members of 
the International Solar Alliance, an initiative promoted by Indi a along with our international partners 
to promote solar energy , and also the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.  
4.206.   Our bilateral trade with Fiji, though, has been steadily expanding in recent years, still 
remains very modest and we would like to see this improve for the mutual benefit of our people . 
One area which we would like to highlight is the pharmaceutical sector where Fiji could perhaps 
benefit from India as a thriving generic medicines exporter , and to help promote equity in the Fi jian 
health care sector. T his would require the creation of an enabling policy framework as well .  
4.207.   A number of Indian companies have invested in Fiji in diverse fields such as health, 
education, IT , and financial services . India  has been a closed developme nt partner of Fiji and has 
undertaken capacity -building, infrastructure development,  and technical assistance program mes, we 
look forward to building on these initiatives to deepen our partnership with Fiji.  
4.208.   As brought out in the Secretariat's Report since  the last Trade Policy Review  in 2016, the 
economy of Fiji has performed well, based on a relatively open trade regim e, sound macroeconomic 
policies , and structural reforms . Fiji's reliance on trade  and tourism makes it vulnerable to external 
shocks, the s mall face of its economy and the sus ceptibility  to natural disasters also constrain its 
economic growth prospects.  
4.209.   India fully understands t he challenges faced by Fiji as a small island developing state . We 
support and encourage Fiji's efforts to open up i ts economy and integrate with the global economy . 
In this regard , we commend the Government of Fiji for the economic reforms being implemented to 
create the conditions for economic business and social prosperity . 
4.210.   Finally, I would like to refer to what the Honourable Deputy Prime  Minister mentioned in his 
opening remarks today . We were pleased to note that in his opening statement he laid emphasis on 
the criticality  of trade for Fiji in its economic development and Fiji's firm commitment to a strong 
multilat eral trading system to help everyone benefit in this interconnected world , due to our strong 
and close bilateral relationship, India and Fiji have been cooperating closely in all multilateral fora, 
and we thank Fiji for its support to India in the multilat eral organization, including here at the WTO.  
4.211.   Fiji has been and active Member and strong -wise for small island countries and for the larger 
Global South, it has been contributing immensely to the ongoing discussions and negotiations at the 
WTO in order to ensure a balanced, fair, and equitable outcomes, many Members and the discussant 
have spoken about it,  and we look forward to working with the delegation of Fiji in the coming 
months  to ensure a successful outcomes in MC13.  
4.212.   We wish the delegation of Fiji a productive and successful Trade Policy Review.  
VANUATU  
4.213.   The Vanuatu delegation wishes to congratulate Fiji on its fourth WTO Trade Policy Review.  
4.214.   We extend a warm welcome to the Honourable Manoa  Seru Kamikamica, Deputy 
Prime  Minister and Minister for Trade, SMEs, Cooperatives and Communications and to the members 
of his delegation to this Trad e Policy Review – Ni sa bula vinaka . We recogni ze that the participation 
of the Honourable Minister in leading this Trade Policy Review is a testament to the high priority the 
Government of Fiji accords to the WTO and its adherence to the transparency obli gations.  
4.215.   We thank the Government of Fiji for the high quality of its national report which is clear and 
concise , and also thank the WTO Secretariat for its Report. We also thank the Deputy Prime  Minister 
for his statement outlining Fiji 's development stra tegy and national trade policy as well. We thank 
Ambassador George  Mina for your warm remarks as a discussant.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.216.   We commend the Government of Fiji for the significant progress made in its trade policies 
since the last Review. The Report outlines some setback s in economic growth in the recent past due 
to unfavourable global economic conditions, spill -over effects of wars and instability far from the 
Pacific and the negative consequences of the global health pandemic.  
4.217.   Additionally, the effect of climate change , sea level rise, and the disposition and nature of 
the vulnerability to natural disasters is a constant threat.  Despite this, the future is favourable for 
the Fijian people. Why is this so?  
4.218.   This is because, and is evidenced in the Report that  Fiji has emb arked on legislative and 
process reforms, improving financial accountability, good governance and has adopted prudent 
public expenditure management and with the recently completed National Economic Summit, 
short-term, medium -term and long -term economic pol icies and strategies are being formulated.  
4.219.   Our view that the thematic areas of the national economic summit include, inter alia, 
macroeconomic management, key growth sectors, governance and reforms, human development, 
rural and outer island development, tr ansport etc. will provide an impetus for many more years of 
positive developments in Fiji.   
4.220.   We note the Report outlin es the performance of the major sectors in the economy on MSMEs, 
Agriculture (both sugar and non -sugar), the manufacturing sector, textile  clothing and footwear – 
on mining, forestry, and the services sector.  
4.221.   I make two observations on the major sectors , first o n tourism  - on the services economy - 
and the second, o n the fisheries sector.  
4.222.   On the tourism sector, Fiji is commended for the posi tive and recovery phase of the tourism 
sector since 2021 and the contribution of foreign exchange earnings from tourism which will grow 
beyond the levels Fiji saw prior to C OVID -19. 
4.223.   On Fisheries, the report sets out precisely the fact that Fiji has an excl usive economic zone 
of around 1.28  million km2 and approximately 75% of Fiji 's population reside within 5  km off the 
coast. The major contribution to this sector is from commercial fishing and especially the commercial 
offshore tuna catches. The threat to this fisheries sector is unfortunately, from climate change, 
natural disasters, instances of overfishing a nd the illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUU). 
On this IUU, if we are responding to the Fiji TPR Report, the WTO must address IUU in its disciplines.  
4.224.   We note the major trade developments and investment policies. Fij i's major trading partners 
include the Pacific  Islands, and we are pleased with the trade relationship between Fiji and Vanuatu.  
4.225.   The Report also points to the structural challenges that Fiji faces and should be taken into 
account. Like Vanuatu, Fiji also faces high trade costs stemm ing from smallness, remoteness from 
markets and is dependent on a few exports and a few sectors. This is exacerbated by the external 
shocks particularly natural disasters which are increasing in intensity and regularity in the region 
and setting back devel opment progress.  
4.226.   We note the views expressed by Fiji on the issue of non -tariff barriers in foreign markets 
and institutional capacity limitations to address sanitary and phytosanitary measures and technical 
barriers that inhibit exports. We call on count ries who have imposed those barriers to take action 
for a positive outcome for Fiji.  
4.227.   We call on Members to support Fiji in its efforts to advance its national trade reforms, to 
diversify its economy, build its capacity to trade and build economic resilien ce in the long term in 
line with its national development strategy.  
REPUBLIC OF KOREA  
4.228.   The Republic of Korea would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegates of Fiji led by 
Deputy Prime Minister , the Honourable Manoa Seru Kamikamica for their fourth Tr ade Policy Review. 
We would also like to express our gratitude to H.E. Ambassador Luke  Daunivalu, Permanent 
Representative of Fiji; we also thank the Government of Fiji and the WTO Secretariat for their WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  informative reports. My sincere appreciation also goe s to the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador 
George  Mina, for his insightful comments. The Republic of Korea is grateful for this opportunity to 
take a closer look at the trade policies and practices Fiji has undertaken since the last Review in 
2016.  
4.229.   The Republic  of Korea and Fiji have remained a good economic relationship over the 
past 50 years. Despite some fluctuations, their trade volume has increased steadily. Recently, 
Korean companies are increasing their investments in Fiji. For example, the completion of the 
renewable energy biomass power plant invested by the Republic of Korea and its subsequent sale of 
electricity to the Fiji Authority showcases a positive development in the economic relationship 
between the two countries. The Korean Minister of Oceans a nd Fisheries visited to Fiji in last May to 
strengthen their cooperation in the marine and fisheries sector. The Republic of Korea has provided 
development assistance to Fiji through various projects and program mes such as education, 
healthcare, agricultur e, and rural development. These efforts aim to strengthen the bilateral relation 
and promote economic cooperation between the two countries. Tourism plays a significant role in 
the economic relationship between the Republic of Korea and Fiji. Korean touris ts have shown an 
increasing interest in visiting Fiji's beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and cultural attractions.  
4.230.   Turning to economic performance, Fiji's GDP experienced a significant decline in 2020 due 
to the COVID -19 pandemic, which severely impacted i ts key industry, tourism. Now we are pleased 
to note that great recovery has been observed, and it is projected that its economy will rebound 
significantly in 2023, with a growth rate of 8.5% thanks to the G overnment 's effort s. 
4.231.   Allow me to highlight four p oints regarding Fiji 's trade policy.  First, we note that the ongoing 
development and improvement of Fiji's National Development Plan and National Export Strategy, 
spearheaded by the Government, are expected to provide substantial assistance to economic 
development. These strategic frameworks provide a roadmap and guide for a country's economic 
policies and initiatives, helping to prioritize and align efforts towards specific goals. The Republic of 
Korea had similar experiences of formulating five-year plans  for economic development, and it is 
currently in the process of establishing a five-year national fiscal management plan.  
4.232.   Second, the Republic of Korea would like to commend Fiji's active participation and 
contribution to the multilateral trading system as a founding Member of the WTO. Fiji's role as a 
leading economic and commercial hub in the South Pacific, combined with its exemplary pursuit of 
free trade, contributes to trade activation and economic vibrancy in the South Pacific region.  
4.233.   Third, Fiji's service s industry plays a significant role in the country's economy, accounting 
for two -thirds of its GDP and half of its exports. Among the service  sectors, tourism holds particular 
importance as it contributes significantly to GDP growth and job creation. Consequently, the 
Government is encouraged to accelerate proactive policy development and attract foreign 
investments to support this vital sector . 
4.234.   Lastly, the Republic of Korea recognize s that Fiji faces significant challenges due to climate 
change. As a small island developing state, Fiji is particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of 
climate change, including rising sea levels, extreme weat her events, and disruptions to ecosystems. 
The impacts of climate change pose a direct threat to Fiji's economy, environment, and the 
well-being of its population. The tourism sector in particular  can be adversely affected by the 
degradation of coral reefs , beach erosion, and increased risks of natural disasters. These challenges 
require global attention and collaborative efforts to address and mitigate the effects of climate 
change. In this regard, the active participation of Fiji and other WTO Member s in the discussion of 
sustainable environment is very meaningful.  
4.235.   In closing, the Republic of Korea would like to once again appreciate Fiji 's efforts for the 
multilateral trade system and free trade. We are sure that these efforts will contribute to the 
compe titiveness and resilience of its economy. I wish Fiji a successful Review.  
TIMOR -LESTE  
4.236.   Timor -Leste warmly welcomes the delegation of Fiji led by H.E.  Minister  Kamikamica,  and 
congratulates them for the comprehensive Government report which underlines the  strong political 
commitment to the WTO trade policy review process.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  4.237.   We also express our appreciation to the Chair, Ambassador Saqer  Almoqbel, the  discussant, 
Ambassador Geo rge Mina, and the Secretariat, for their insightful  perspectives.  
4.238.   My delegation commend s Fiji's commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system  
and its substantive contribution to the WTO, especially in the WTO negotiations on the  Agreement 
on Fisheries Subsidies to ensure sustainable ocean fishing and securing the  future of the small islands 
and developing countries ' fishing industry.   
4.239.   As a small island state, Timor -Leste acknowledges that small and vulnerable economies  
remain disproportionately affected in the global trade agenda and contributes less to the  global value 
chain. Therefore, we kindly encourage the WTO to continue work with such  Members to mainstream 
their trade by providing support and appropriate flexibility  within the WTO rules.  
4.240.   In closing, we would like to acknowledge the valuable contributions of Ambassador  Daunivalu 
and the team in Geneva. We wish Fiji a successful Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF FIJI AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  It is a great pleasure to see you all again. I am certain that the bula spirit of Fiji that was 
abundantly present on the First Day of Fiji's Trade Policy Review, thanks to our wonderful discussant 
Ambassador  Mina from Australia  for his intervention and co ntributions.  
5.2.  I wish to convey my immense gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to all the WTO Members who 
actively participated in the first day of Fiji's fourth Trade Policy Review, sharing their valuable insights 
and interventions. Fiji listened intently to each contribution and is deeply grateful for the tremendous 
support and affirmations received from the WTO family.  
5.3.  Throughout our trade policy process, we have witnessed a remarkable display of collaboration 
and solidarity, which reaffirms the significa nce of the multilateral trading system in fostering 
economic development and global prosperity.  
5.4.  A number of comments and recommendations were made on the first day of the meeting  and 
I would like to take this opportunity to address some of the questions ra ised by Members during this 
review.  
Outstanding notifications  
5.5.  Firstly, on the matter of Fiji's outstanding notification obligations to the WTO. I assure you that 
Fiji is fully committed to fulfilling its responsibility as a WTO Member. In this regard, we a re working 
actively to improve our capacity and meet our obligations more efficiently.  
Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies  
5.6.  Regarding the matter of Fiji depositing its instrument of acceptance for the Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies to the WTO. I am pleased t o inform you that we are in the process of tabling the 
Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies to our Cabinet and the Parliament for ratification.  
5.7.  WTO Members can expect a positive announcement of our ratification of the Fisheries Subsidies 
Agreement soon. We fi rmly believe that this agreement represents a vital component of our 
collective efforts to safeguard the world's ocean and marine resources, for the benefit of our present 
and future generation.  
PACER Plus  
5.8.  With regards to some Members asking Fiji to join P ACER  Plus, Fiji welcomes the enthusiasm of 
our partners. As a new Government, Fiji will be reassessing its position through a feasibility study 
on joining PACER  Plus. 
5.9.  This is an important moment for Fiji, as we take a fresh look at this agreement and asses s its 
potential benefits and challenges.  
5.10.   We are committed to ensuring that any decisions made in relation to the PACER  Plus 
agreement are based on a thorough understanding of its potential impact on Fiji and its people. To 
this end, we will be engaging wit h a wide range of stakeholders, including the business community, 
to ensure that all perspectives are taken into account.  
WTO Joint Statement Initiative  
5.11.   We have also noted a number of calls regarding Fiji's interest in joining the WTO Joint 
Statement Initi ative (JSI) on E -Commerce, MSME and Investment Facilitation. Again, thank you for 
your interest and invitation.  
5.12.   While Fiji has not been part of these initiatives, mainly due to capacity constraints, Fiji is now 
actively considering its participation in th ese Joint Statement Initiatives. As we move forward with 
our positive consideration, we will engage in internal consultations and assessments to ensure that 
joining these initiatives aligns with our National Development Agenda and supports the well -being 
of our citizens.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  5.13.   We will also collaborate with other WTO Members to seek solutions that address the specific 
needs and challenges faced by SIDS in the context of e -commerce, MSMEs, and investment 
facilitation.  
Multi -party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrange ment  
5.14.   We thank Australia and the European  Union for inviting Fiji to join the Multi -party Interim 
Appeal Arbitration Arrangement. Fiji will seriously consider this arrangement and will assess how 
this arrangement aligns with our overall trade policy objectives and perhaps more broadly the 
objectives of our multilateral Organization.  
Fiji's priorities for MC13  
5.15.   Fiji also received a helpful question on Fiji's priorities for the upcoming WTO 13th Ministerial 
Conference in 2024. As expressed during my statement on the first day of the meeting , one of the 
key priorities for Fiji is the urgent need to conclude the remaining elements of the Fisheries Subsidies 
Agreement and conclude the second wave of  negotiations before MC13. Fiji would also like to see 
the delivery of concrete and effective outcomes to reduce plastics pollution and address 
environmental concerns.  
Fiji's applied and bound tariff  
5.16.   Fiji also received comments on some of Fiji's applied t ariff rates exceeding the bound rates. 
Fiji appreciates the opportunity to shed light on this matter and assures Members that Fiji's approach 
to tariff rates is aligned with the WTO principles of predictability and stability.  
5.17.   In the most recent budget, tar iffs on a number of items that fell outside the bound rates have 
been reduced. The limited number of products that exceed bound rates includes "sin goods" and 
revenue items which will be reconsidered in our reform.  
5.18.   In terms of low bound rates, while Fiji h as not bound 3,422 of its tariff lines at the WTO, it is 
important to note that our applied tariff rates are already set at low levels. These rates are 
predominantly categori zed into four tiers: 0%, 10%, 15% and 32%. This strategy aims to strike a 
balance between promoting economic growth, facilitating trade, and at the same time protecting 
domestic industries. Our applied tariff rates provide a high level of transparency and predictability 
for our trading partners, ensuring a fair and consistent trading en vironment.  
5.19.   Furthermore, Fiji recogni zes the significance of predictability and stability within the 
multilateral trading system. While we have not bound certain tariff lines, Fiji remains fully committed 
to honouring our existing commitments and obligation s under the WTO.  
5.20.   Fiji remains open to further discussions on the binding of tariff lines, taking into account the 
interests and concerns of all parties involved.  
Negative tariff escalation  
5.21.   With regards to concern on escalation of tariff in certain industri es, such as textile, it is 
essential to highlight that these measures are often implemented to encourage the development of 
downstream processing and value addition within our economy.  
5.22.   Fiji, like many other developing countries, faces the challenge of str iking the right balance in 
its trade reforms and ensuring its domestic industries grow. We aim to design our tariff policies with 
a comprehensive approach, taking into consideration the potential impact on our local producers and 
infant industries and thei r ability to compete with global suppliers.  
5.23.   In this regard, we are actively working to strengthen our industries and improve their 
competitiveness, at the same time, continue with trade reforms.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  Highlight Fiji's MSME strategy and the support Fiji requires  from WTO Member s and 
trade partners in the area of MSME development  
5.24.   Some Members have requested us to share more details regarding Fiji's MSME strategy. Fiji 
takes great pride in our efforts to create an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive.  
5.25.   MSMEs pla y a crucial role in our economy, contributing significantly to job creation, 
innovation, and overall economic growth. As we continue to foster the growth of our MSMEs, we are 
humbled to see that other WTO Members recogni ze the importance of such endeavours  and express 
an interest in learning from our experiences.  
5.26.   We are in the process of creating an "eco-system " of support for MSMEs. Some of the specific 
aspects of Fiji's MSME strategy are as follows:  
(i) Facilitating easier access to finance and access to equi ty by working with development 
banks. In Fiji we are working with the Fiji Development  Bank (FDB) where the Government 
guarantees FDB's loans to enable it to have access to cheaper finance and provide suitable 
financing for MSMEs  
 
(ii) Strengthening the capabil ities and skills of MSMEs, especially improving their digital and 
financial literacy by providing relevant support, training , and assistance.  For example, we 
are assisting MSMEs to develop their websites and internet payment gateways, marketing 
plans and f inancial accounts and statements.  
 
(iii) Encouraging innovation and the adoption of modern technologies through grant 
programmes ; for example, in agriculture, the Government funds the mechani zation of farms 
using the one -third two-third model.  
(iv) Enabling MSMEs reach to international markets by fostering exports . One of our grant 
programmes, National Export Strategy, focuses on addressing barriers that MSMEs face in 
international markets. This could relate to issues such as technical standards, SPS measures  
or marketing and promotion.  
 
(v) Most importantly, simplifying business regulations and reducing bureaucratic hurdles to 
create a more conducive environment for MSME development.  We have an active 
Doing -Business reform programme that aims to digiti ze all business -related approvals on a 
single platform. One of the objectives is to make the services easier for MSMEs to establish, 
operate and thrive.  
5.27.   Moreover, certain Members have also expressed their willingness to support Fiji in its MSME 
development effort s. Such offers of assistance are a testament to the spirit of international 
cooperation and solidarity which the WTO embodies. Fiji requires assistance from WTO Member s and 
trade partners in reducing trade barriers, in particular non -tariff barriers, and i mproving market 
access conditions to enable Fiji's MSMEs to reach international markets. Fiji wishes to also seek 
assistance from Members in reviewing and streamlining regulatory processes related to MSMEs.  
5.28.   Building networks and partnerships with internat ional businesses and organi zations can open 
new opportunities for MSMEs. Support from trade partners in facilitating such connections can be 
invaluable for Fiji's MSMEs.  
Fiji's role on Trade and Environment Issues  
5.29.   Fiji remains committed to continue strongl y advocating on the nexus between trade and 
environment and climate change. Fiji has also started incorporating environment focused discussions 
in all of our regional and plurilateral discussions.  
5.30.   This is our crucial national interest as we are at the fore front of the adverse impacts of climate 
change. We will continue to work with Members in advancing the discussions on these issues in the 
Committee on Environment and Trade and Environment Sustainable Development.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  Conclusion  
5.31.   I reaffirm Fiji's commitment t o the rule s-based multilateral trading system. We will continue 
to actively participate in the WTO discussions, especially the second wave of negotiations on fisheries 
subsidies. I urge all the WTO Members not to further delay the negotiations and show goo d faith 
and finali ze the remainder of the Agreement.  
5.32.   I would like to take this opportunity to thank you Mr  Chair, for your leadership throughout 
Fiji's Review and the good work you  are doing as Chair of the Trade Policy Review Body this year. 
I also commen d Ambassador  Mina, the discussant, for your "Bula powered and spirited intervention " 
as "vuvale " and family, which set the platform for such an interactive and enlightening Trade Policy 
Review. As a " vuvale ", irrespective of your critics, we appreciate and  value your guidance always 
and we hope you can visit Fiji again soon perhaps after MC13.  
5.33.   Also, I wish to acknowledge and thank all the Members for your keen interest and active 
participation in Fiji's fourth Review.  
5.34.    Last but not the least, I must also th ank the Secretariat team in facilitating a smooth and 
successful Review. See you all at MC13 . Vinaka vakalevu  and thank you.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.35.   Let me begin by thanking the Membership for its engagement in Fiji's fourth Trade Policy 
Review, for their questions and interest in Fiji's trade policies and practices.  And let me provide 
particular thanks to Fiji – Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, S MEs and 
Communications, the Honourable Manoa  Kamikamica ; Ambassador  Luke Daunivalu ; Permanent 
Secretary  Shaheen  Ali and the whole Fiji team for the thorough, open and diligent manner that it 
has engaged with this process. Your fai thful engagement in this process leaves us with no doubt 
that Fiji is a committed to the global trading system.  
5.36.   It is an honour to again serve today as discussant.  Deputy Prime Minister, you have responded 
comprehensively, and openly, just now, to many of the themes in Members' questions and 
statements in this review. So, there is no need for me to review comprehensively the comments 
made by the Membership.  
5.37.   Let me just draw out a few key themes.  Earlier this week, Members commended Fiji's 
impressive post -COVID economic growth in 2022, and the resilience Fiji had shown through other 
recent shocks. Members welcomed Fiji's ongoing commitment and reliance on trade as a driver of 
its recovery, and Members congratulated Fiji on its impressive and comprehensive ref orms to 
stimulate this recovery.  
5.38.   Members welcomed Fiji's economic and trade development strategies, which prioritize the 
empowerment of women and youth, Fiji's efforts to promote MSMEs , its commitment to enabling 
private -sector growth, to digiti zation and economic moderni zation and encourage Fiji to continue 
these efforts.  
5.39.   We heard commendation for Fiji's development vision revolving around building a 
climate -resilient economy. Members encouraged Fiji to continue to lead the world through the 
acceleration o f the implementation of practical measures to address climate challenges. Members 
applauded Fiji's engagement and leadership of environment discussions at the WTO.  
5.40.   Fiji received recognition from Members for actively and constructively participating in vari ous 
other WTO discussions, particularly in negotiations concerning fisheries subsidies. They urged the 
authorities to promptly deposit Fiji's instrument of acceptance to demonstrate commitment.  
5.41.   Whilst I certainly am exceptionally fond of Fiji that means th at I must use this opportunity to 
the full provide some recommendations and suggestions, drawing on Members' suggestions and a 
few of my own. I am going to call these the four "Ps".  
5.42.   The first "P" is "PACER  Plus". Members welcomed Fiji's significant contrib ution to the global 
trading system. The Pacific  Group, Australia, and New  Zealand  specifically welcomed the particular WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  contribution Fiji plays in the region. Members encouraged Fiji to take the next step towards regional 
integration and leadership. I welco me the Deputy Prime  Minister's announcement that Fiji is 
reconsidering Fiji's possible participation in the initiative and will conduct a feasibility study on the 
opportunities and challenges, including by deepening its engagement with stakeholders. This i s an 
important announcement. Let me encourage Fiji to consider positively participation in PACER  Plus: 
joining the initiative would contribute considerably to Fiji and to regional economic integration.  
5.43.   The second "P" is "predictability". I welcome Fiji's e fforts to bring its notifications into 
compliance, acknowledging the capacity constraints facing Fiji. I also acknowledge the comments 
you just made, Deputy Prime  Minister, on the importance of providing predictability to trading 
partners by bringing your applied tariffs in line with your bound tariffs. The question of the scope of 
those bound tariffs is a different question and your partners would, I am sure, welcome continued 
discussion on the scope of your bound tariffs, but for predictability it will be  important to strive to 
bring alignment between Fiji's bound and applied tariffs.  
5.44.   The third " P" is "participation". We have heard about Fiji's significant contribution to the global 
trading system and to this house in Geneva. But I would like to highlight  three issues that Members 
specifically would welcome your engagement, and which through engaging with you during this 
review, I understand align with your priorities. The first is the E -Commerce Initiative. We have heard 
about your strong digiti zation, co nnectivity , and economic moderni zation agenda domestically. The 
impressive growth and increased innovation in your Business Process Outsourcing sector – the 
E-Commerce Joint Statement Initiative is a natural fit with your interests. The second area is on 
agriculture – I have heard about Fiji's efforts to grow its agriculture sector, particularly into 
high-value agricultural products. Fiji's greater participation in agriculture discussions aligns closely 
with its goal to develop and grow its agriculture sect or. Finally, I welcome Fiji's consideration of the 
Multi-party Interim Appeals Arrangement (MPIA). Your strong commitment to the Fisheries Subsidies 
Agreement can only be supported by the ability to enforce the commitments Members have made. 
The MPIA will support that goal.  
5.45.   My final " P" is "please continue". You have heard it across the Membership – please continue 
your leadership. Your strength across the whole gamut of issues here. The nexus of trade and 
environment, your leadership on climate on plastics  and your policy innovation – to call for the 
development of best practice, to drive deliberation, cooperation , and commitments. We welcome 
your leadership in driving these issues and supporting Geneva in its role as a trade and environment 
policy capital.   
5.46.   May I conclude by again saying that just as the WTO has benefited Fiji, we too would benefit 
greatly from more Fiji in the WTO. I thank Fiji for the way it has participated in this review and 
congratulate you on a very successful fourth  Trade Policy Revi ew. 
UNITED  STATES  
5.47.   Thank you Chair and thank you Ambassador Mina  for th e very impressive summary as well 
as Deputy Prime Minister , you already  highlight ed everything that I was going to say, but I am still 
going to say a few of those things and reiterate some of the points that have  already been made .  
5.48.   I note with great interest that you have heard us and many other Members on our request 
for greater transp arency  and on  providing timely notification s, and taking on your message, we look 
forward to hearing more from you.  
5.49.   We also note with great interest that you hope to ratify the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement 
within the next few weeks, that is really good n ews, and we look forward to that as well . I also take 
note of the fact that you are looking at bringing your tariff rates into alignment with your bound 
tariff rates.  These are messages are very welcomed.  
5.50.    We also want to take this opportunity to highlight  some of the ways we are going to continue 
to work with Fiji, now and with the view to your next Trade Policy Review , to help you come up with 
some of the solutions that you are looking for . Regarding IPEF, we look forward to that engagement  
and to continu ing that process, but as Ambassador  Mina said, there are a lot of  other areas of mutual 
interest at the WTO and we hope that we can continue to work with you, because we do agree that 
Fiji brings an important constructive voice to this house .  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  5.51.   I also want to assure you that the United  States remains committed to supporting our trade 
and sustainable growth with Fiji and the rest of the Pacific Islands. Our Vice -President participated 
virtually in the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders' Meeting, where she announce d a lot of new 
commitments to deepen our partnership with the region and deliver concrete results for the Pacific 
people, th is advance s the US agenda to strengthen the US and the Pacific Islands partnership , it 
also builds on five decades of close cooperat ion in the Pacific Islands  Forum, including as a founding 
dialog ue partner USD 350 million in annual assistance to the Pacific.  
5.52.   I also wanted to just highlight , because we have been talking so much about  fisheries 
agreements, for 33 years the South Pacific Tuna Treaty that has serve d as the cornerstone of political 
and economic cooperation between the United  States and Pacific Islands  supporting livelihoods 
across the region and providing a platform for broader cooperation, including to com bat the scourge 
of IUU fishing. We will continue to cooperate on fisherie s-related economic development and ocean's  
resilience .  
5.53.   Through US AID we have  been working on other  program mes in the region, just last month, 
to promote recycling in Suva City , the U SAID in partnership with Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited (WRFL) 
and the Pacific Foundation (PRF), c onducted a training workshop on Social and Behaviour Change 
Communication for a recycling project in Suva City . There is a long list that my capital has provide d 
of all the work we are doing, and some of that is with partners in the Pacific  such as Australia , Japan, 
New Zealand and UK as Partners in the Blue Pacific which is bringing USD 2.1 billion in development 
assistance to the region . All that to say that th ere are a lot of resources available, and we hope to 
continue our work and we will continue working with you bilaterally , plurilaterally , and in this house 
multilaterally.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.54.   Let me first thank the delegation of Fiji for the very comprehensive replies to our advanced 
questions, and the overviews presented during the two days of the meeting on the main 
developments occurred in its trade and economic policy during the review period . Thanks also to 
Ambassador  Mina for his very active role as a disc ussant and his very pertinent remarks that we all 
share.   
5.55.   We are very pleased to note that this review has been useful for highlighting the trade policy 
and the challenges Fiji is facing, especially the effects of climate change and frequent extreme 
weathe r episodes.  In this regard, we noted that many WTO Members shared the EU's appreciation 
for Fiji's role , engagement , and participation in the WTO plurilateral environmental initiatives on 
plastics pollution  and also fossil fuel subsidies reform, and the EU very much looks forward to working 
with you on this nexus of trade and environmental policies.  
5.56.   We also took note that Fiji is  positively considering joining  the Investment Facilitation for 
Development  and perhaps also Services Domestic Regulation and E-Commerce initiatives , as well 
as MSMEs. This  is very positive and thank you also for the very useful update on your own MSMEs 
strategy that seems to fit very well with the objectives pursued here.  
5.57.   As we stated already on the first day of the meeting , the m anagement of natural resources, 
social governance , and fight against IUU fishing is and remains our shared objective, and like many 
WTO Members, also the EU appreciate very much  the significant role of each in delivering the 
Fisheries Subsid ies Agreement a t the MC12  and the active participation in ongoing negotiations . In 
this context , we take  very good note of the positive  news you delivered this morning that we can 
expect the ratification of the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement soon . 
5.58.   Finally, the EU  looks forward to continuing working with Fiji in the lead -up to MC13 , as well 
as cooperating bilaterally and regionally on the full and effective implementation of the Economic 
Partnership Agreement and through that more recent  Fiji-European  Union Trade and Invest ment 
Forum . 
5.59.   To conclude, we thank Fiji for the very constructive participation in this transparent exercise.  
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  CANADA  
5.60.   I just  wanted to take the opportunity to say share a few short points .  
5.61.   Deputy Prime  Minister, thank you for being here, thank you for the seriousness and the 
positive spirit in which you have taken this transparency Review , in particular, your  remarks this 
morning that respond the questions and the comments that the Organization posed to you and your 
countr y.  
5.62.   Canada certainly appreciates the immediate feedback that you gave to us today , we too are 
very excited for the positive steps that you are taking towards the ratification of the Fisheries 
Subsidies A greement and the seriousness in wh ich you are considering more p articipation  in the 
Joint Statement Initiatives and the MPI A.  
5.63.   We agree with Australia and others  that this Organization needs more of Fiji and th is is a 
testament to the fact that the positivity that Fiji brings to this house , to the discussions that we need 
to be having on the future of this Organization, in particular with regard to climate and other issues, 
is something that we need more of in order for this Organization to continue to be relevant . In that 
regard , I would b e remiss if I did not say a personal thank to your Ambassador , my friend 
Luke Daunivalu, and his team in Geneva, the team's ability to be everywhere at once and to provide 
leadership on different discussions is appreciated very much . 
5.64.   Lastly, I would just l ike to say on a bilateral note that Canada really does look forward to 
strengthening our bilateral relationship with Fiji. The fact that we are opening our first Mission is a 
testament to Canada's desire to strengthen and further deepen our relationship be tween our two 
nations.  
REPUBLIC OF KOREA  
5.65.   The Republic of Korea would like to thank the Honourable Deputy Prime  Minister, 
Manoa  Seru Kamikamica, and the Fijian delegation for your dedication on presenting Fiji's trade 
policy and comprehensive overview. The  Republic of Korea appreciates the leadership of the Chair 
and the insightful and thoughtful comments of the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador George  Mina, and 
the hard work of the Secretariat in organizing this Trade Policy Review.  
5.66.   This meeting is extremely in formative as it provide s a platform to share not only the Fiji's 
trade policies but also the world economic landscape . The Republic of Korea is immensely  pleased 
to witness Fiji's economy overcoming the adversity of the COVID -19 pandemic. We wi sh a swiftly 
and robust recovery going forward . 
5.67.   The Republic of Korea  also anticipates Fiji's active engagement and contribution to the 
multilateral trading system, including JSI . Furthermore, the Republic of Korea hopes that Fiji  will 
effectively address the challenges posed by climate change with the WTO Members.  
5.68.   Lastly, Fiji is a valuable partner of the Republic of Korea and we look forward to continuing 
our constructive and evolving relationship with Fiji. The Republic of Korea wishes a sustained growt h 
and development for Fiji. 
SAMOA  
5.69.   We wish to join others in congratulating Fiji on the successful conclusion of its fourth Trade 
Policy Review . We commend the Fiji for  fulfilling its obligations and commitment in upholding the 
WTO transparency requirements to undertake the Review, as reflected in its country Report . We 
wish the Honourable Deputy  Prime  Minister and his delegation every success for the remain of this 
day in Geneva and a safe journey home when the time comes . Thank you.  
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The fourth  Trade Policy Review of Fiji has offered us a good occasion to assess and deepen our 
understanding of the main developments on the wide rang e of trade policies and practices of Fiji, 
and the challenges it faces since its last Review in 2016.  
6.2.  I would like to thank the delegation of Fiji led by the Honourable  Deputy Prime  Minister Manoa 
Seru Kamikamica , Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications, for his active role 
in this exercise. My gratitude also goes to our discussant H.E. Ambassador George  Mina, Permanent 
Representative of Australia to the WTO, for his insightful comments, and to a ll the 24  delegations 
who took the floor during the Review.  
6.3.  Members recognized the trade -related challenges Fiji faced, including its vulnerability to climate 
change, as well as the impact of recent exogenous shocks on Fiji's economy, including the COVID -19 
pandemic, and multiple devastating natural disasters. Members applauded Fiji for the resilience of 
its economy to respond to external shocks and praised its quick and impressive private sector -led 
recovery. In particular, they commended Fiji for its qui ck recovery from the pandemic, having 
achieved a real GDP growth rate above 15% in 2022.  
6.4.  Despite these challenges, many Members hailed Fiji's actions in undertaking key reforms to 
promote investment, trade, and economic growth and development. These have i ncluded promoting 
Micro, Small and Medium -sized Enterprises (MSME); facilitating doing business; improving financial 
accountability, good governance, and public expenditure management; empowering youth and 
women; and building an environmentally sustainable  economy.  
6.5.  Fiji was commended for its active participation in upholding the multilateral trading system 
including for its contribution to the MC12 outcomes, its participation in the work of the WTO in 
different committees, its acceptance and implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and 
the TRIPS Amendment, as well as its constructive contribution and participation in the plurilateral 
environmental initiatives in the WTO such as on plastics pollution, the Trade and Environmental 
Sustainability Struc tured discussions (TESSD) and the Fossil Fuel Subsidies Reform Initiative. Some 
Members encouraged Fiji to consider joining the Joint Statement Initiative on E -Commerce as well 
as the Information Technology Agreement (ITA), to complement Fiji's efforts in digital 
transformation.  
6.6.  Members recognized that Fiji was making efforts to comply with its WTO commitments and 
were interested in learning more about Fiji's plans to submit its outstanding notifications to the WTO. 
Members made a call to provide Fiji with  a substantial level of technical assistance in this regard.  
6.7.  Regarding trade policy, Members appreciated Fiji's efforts in undertaking customs 
modernization reforms, including the digital and organizational transformation of the Fiji Revenue 
and Customs Se rvices and noted that Fiji had fulfilled 97% of its implementation commitments under 
the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Fiji was commended for its efforts to reduce the average 
applied tariff rate from 11% to 6% over the review period, and encouraged to  align with their bound 
rates the few applied tariffs that appear to exceed them.  
6.8.  Members commended Fiji for its energy transition policy, and the importance granted to 
MSMEs. Some Members requested additional information on the effectiveness of a tax mea sure in 
stimulating agricultural exports; policy measures to help domestic producers of sugar; support to 
the tourism sector; and measures to promote financial inclusion.  
6.9.  The strong interest placed by Members in Fiji's trade policies is evident from the 16 9 advance 
written questions Fiji received from 14  delegations for this review, out of which 92  were sent within 
the established deadline, covering a broad range of topics. Prior to this meeting, Fiji already provided 
written replies to all advance written questions.  
6.10.   Fiji's delegation has clearly demonstrated that it places a high value on the Trade Policy 
Review Mechanism and the multilateral trading system as a whole with its active engagement over 
the two -day meeting. Members commended Fiji's representati ves to the WTO for their valuable 
contributions.  WT/TPR/W/ 231 
 
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  6.11.   To conclude, Members have benefit ed from Fiji's statements and the replies provided to 
questions raised during this exercise.  
 
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