The Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development, Hon. Esrom Immanuel, has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the private sector, describing it as “a vital force in the nation’s progress.”
Speaking at the opening of the TOPEX 2025 Conference at Sofitel Resort & Spa in Nadi today, the Minister said Fiji’s long-term economic ambitions depend on deeper partnership with industry leaders.
“Our goal of becoming a high-income nation by 2050 requires sustained real GDP growth of 5–6 percent annually,” he said.
“Such growth can only be enabled by greater private sector engagement, leadership and investment.”
This year’s TOPEX has attracted more than 400 delegates — the largest in the conference’s 65-year history. The Minister acknowledged the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) for its leadership and for “bringing together the top figures of the private sector under one roof.”
Minister Immanuel highlighted several key government initiatives designed to improve the ease of doing business and boost investor confidence, including the BusinessNOW Fiji program, DigitalFIJI, the establishment of the Investment Facilitation Committee, and policy reforms to increase access to finance for MSMEs.
He also noted ongoing collaboration with FCEF on trade facilitation, saying the Single Window Trade Platform will “enhance our export capacity and reduce our trade deficit.”
He praised the role of TOPEX in shaping Fiji’s policy dialogue, noting that collaboration between government and industry is “an incredible opportunity to generate constructive discussion and solutions-based outcomes.”
“As you discuss priorities and solutions over the next two days, I encourage you to consider how the private sector can continue to strengthen its partnership with the public sector,” he told delegates.
The Minister officially declared TOPEX 2025 open, wishing all delegates a successful conference.
