Riya Bhagwan 
[Photo: Supplied: Fiji Innovation Hub Facebook page]
The government is considering tax incentives for businesses that invest in Fiji’s Innovation Hub and local technology start-ups.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica says a tax credit could be introduced for companies that contribute to the Innovation Hub.
He says the move could attract more private-sector funding and help local technology businesses grow.
The Innovation Hub supports Fijian entrepreneurs and start-ups through resources, mentorship and opportunities to develop and scale technology-based businesses.
Kamikamica says the initiative could help diversify Fiji’s economy and create more opportunities in the information and communications technology sector.
“The biggest thing about the Innovation Hub is it’s another way of diversifying the Fijian economy, particularly in the ICT space, and there’s a lot of innovative young men and women out there. I was very, very impressed with what I saw at the Innovation Hub.”
Kamikamica says the government is working to attract more funding for the hub and encourage businesses to support its growth.
He says while the initiative is still in its early stages, locally developed technology businesses have the potential to expand into international markets.
Kamikamica says even if some innovators move overseas, Fiji could continue benefiting from their connection to the country through investment and remittances.
