Business leaders push for investor confidence

Fiji's success in attracting overseas investment depends heavily on the robustness of its policies and infrastructure, stated Himen Chandra, President of the Fiji-Australia Business Council. With the release of the 2026–2027 National Budget, Chandra stressed that the nation must now focus on creating the right conditions to compete for international capital.

Chandra highlighted that policies are the primary determinant of Fiji's attractiveness to investors. Weak policy settings, he warned, could stifle economic growth and limit business prospects. Investors, he noted, look beyond mere incentives and market opportunities, with essential infrastructure playing a critical role in their decision-making processes. "It’s our policies in play that make us attractive. If we don’t have the right policies in place, then we can’t be attractive enough to ensure that the economy grows and more business comes our way," Chandra said.

To support companies looking to establish or expand operations in Fiji, the country requires continuous upgrades to key infrastructure areas, including electricity, roads, water supply, and sewage systems. These comments precede Fiji's hosting of the Fiji-Australia Joint Business Forum in Suva from August 27 to 29. The forum is expected to convene business leaders, investors, and government officials from both Fiji and Australia to explore economic opportunities, trade links, and investment potential.

Chandra described the current relationship between Fiji and Australia as one of its strongest, presenting a significant opportunity for businesses to deepen their cooperation. The Fiji-Australia Business Council plays a vital role in guiding companies from both markets to understand the opportunities, challenges, and strategies for maximizing their bilateral relationship. The council views the upcoming forum as a crucial platform for Fiji to showcase its investment potential while simultaneously addressing obstacles that could impede future economic growth.

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It’s our policies in play that make us attractive. If we don’t have the right policies in place, then we can’t be attractive enough to ensure that the economy grows and more business comes our way.