The New Zealand market provides numerous untapped potential for Fijian exporters says Trade Minister Faiyaz Koya.

Koya says this is evident in the trade imbalance which is in favour of New Zealand.

Trade Minister, Faiyaz Koya pointed out on a 7-year average, Fiji’s balance of trade with New Zealand has a deficit of $525 million.

Koya believes this imbalance has a solution and needs to be addressed.
He says there’s a few opportunities for Fiji to export its niche market Fijian made goods such as body care products, organic ginger, coffee and furniture to New Zealand.

The Minister adds this can be achieved as the Fijian, New Zealand biosecurity agency as well as other border authorities have enhanced cooperation and are working closely.

Koya reiterated that this can only be achieved through constructive consultation and dialogue.

Koya was speaking at the opening of the joint Fiji-New Zealand and New Zealand-Fiji Business Councils conference in Auckland, New Zealand today.