Fijian exporters confident despite finance access challenges

Fijian exporters are demonstrating considerable confidence in their international prospects, with a significant majority expecting revenue growth in the coming year. According to the Pacific Islands Export Survey 2026 Fiji Spotlight, 72 percent of exporters anticipate an increase in export revenue over the next 12 months.

This optimism is supported by a net export revenue growth balance of +22 over the past year, a figure slightly above the Pacific average. Tim Martin, Pacific Trade Invest Australia Trade Commissioner, described this as an encouraging sign, noting that businesses are increasingly developing the capacity to compete on the global stage. "What is particularly encouraging is the way businesses are using trade agreements and new technologies to compete internationally," Martin stated.

However, the survey also highlights a critical challenge facing the sector: access to finance. A sharp increase in businesses reporting difficulty obtaining loans is a cause for concern. Currently, 67% of Fijian exporters report challenges in securing finance, a notable rise from 49% in 2024.

Investment Fiji Chief Executive Kamal Chetty acknowledged that the survey's findings accurately reflect both the resilience and the opportunities within Fiji's export sector, while also pinpointing financing as a key pressure point. Chetty confirmed that these insights will be instrumental in developing strategies to enhance exporter support, explore new avenues for financing, and connect Fijian businesses with high-growth international markets.

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Fijian exporters continue to show confidence in their international prospects, with 72 per cent expecting export revenue to increase over the coming year. What is particularly encouraging is the way businesses are using trade agreements and new technologies to compete internationally.