Business

Cross-border trade critical: Koya

September 9, 2021 4:26 pm

Trade and Commerce Minister, Faiyaz Koya speaking at the Fiji-New Caledonia Investment Webinar [Source: Fijian Government]

The restoration of cross-border trade and investment is vital in driving regional economic recovery.

Trade and Commerce Minister, Faiyaz Koya says returning to trade and investment-led growth hinges on creating enabling conditions for businesses to thrive.

Speaking at the Fiji-New Caledonia Investment Webinar, Koya says the government is modernising its investment law, streamlining and digitalising approval systems and processes to assist businesses.

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He adds while lockdowns to contain COVID-19 has affected trade and investment, this can be rectified through regional cooperation.

“By building regional trade and economic linkages, we will set the foundation for our economic recovery and a platform for the Pacific Island Countries to venture in the global trade arena.”

Fiji’s export bill to New Caledonia stood at $5.4M, last year, while we imported $1.9m worth of goods.