Minister Immanuel Launches Fiji’s First Ai Credit Assessment Pilot Project

Fiji has officially launched its first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Credit Assessment Pilot Project for Unsecured Lending — a groundbreaking step towards greater financial inclusion, innovation, and responsible technology adoption in the country’s financial sector.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Fiji Development Bank (FDB) in partnership with the Market Development Facility (MDF), supported by the Australian Government, and technology partner Third Roc Pty Ltd, was launched today by the Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development, Hon. Esrom Immanuel, at the FDB headquarters in Suva.

The project is designed to make lending faster, fairer, and more accessible, particularly for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women entrepreneurs, and young innovators who often face barriers to credit.

“This launch marks more than a technological milestone,” Minister Immanuel said.

“It signifies Fiji’s ongoing transition into a digitally enabled and knowledge-driven economy — one where innovation and smart policy intersect to deliver real benefits for our people.”

The AI-driven platform will use behavioural data, psychometric analysis, and alternative indicators to assess borrowers’ potential — rather than relying solely on traditional collateral and paperwork.

“For too long, many capable and hardworking Fijians have faced barriers to credit — not because of lack of potential, but because of a lack of data or traditional collateral,” the Minister said.

“This AI-driven credit assessment platform changes that. It enables lenders to assess potential — not just paperwork.”

Minister Immanuel commended the partnership’s balanced approach to technology, noting that while AI will support credit assessments, final lending decisions will remain with FDB’s experienced credit officers.

“Human judgment, empathy, and accountability remain at the core of financial decision-making,” he said.

He described the project as a model of responsible innovation, aligning with key national priorities in the National Development Plan 2025–2029 — including innovation and technology adoption, financial inclusion, and economic diversification.

“This is precisely the kind of initiative that positions Fiji as a regional leader in responsible, innovation-led development,” he added.

Over the next twelve months, the pilot will provide valuable insights to inform Fiji’s broader approach to digital lending and inclusive finance. Initially available to selected existing FDB customers, the project is expected to expand to new customers following its successful completion.

“Let us continue to champion initiatives that make finance more accessible, systems more transparent, and our economy more resilient.”