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Fiji Trade and Investment Business Forum Held in Surrey
5-22-2024
The Surrey Board of Trade and its Surrey International Trade Centre, in partnership with the Fiji Trade Commission North America, the Fiji Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, SMEs, and Communications, Investment Fiji, and the Honorary Consuls of Fiji, hosted a high-level Trade and Investment Business Forum on May 6, 2024, at the Sheraton Guildford Hotel from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
"We are honored to host and welcome such a high-level delegation from Fiji to Surrey to explore global business connections for local businesses," said Anita Huberman, President & CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade.
Key Components of the Forum:
Connect with High-Level Officials: Attendee had the opportunity to meet directly with the Honorable Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, SMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, along with other key government representatives. This provided insights into the Fijian business landscape and investment opportunities.
Business Matchmaking Sessions: Tailored matchmaking sessions were held which facilitated meaningful discussions and partnerships between North American businesses and their Fijian counterparts, opening new avenues for trade and investment across diverse industries.
Explore Diverse Sectors: The forum also highlighted potential partnerships in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, ICT, BPO, and manufacturing.
Network with Industry Leaders: Engagement with leading Fijian businesses and organizations to forge valuable connections and explore potential partnerships.
Gain Market Intelligence: Informative sessions were held on a one-on-one basis to provide insights into Fiji's economy, business incentives, and investment climate.
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The program was Ideal For:
North American companies interested in expanding into the Fiji market
Businesses seeking cross-border investment opportunities in Fiji’s tourism, agriculture, BPO, and manufacturing sectors
Companies looking to develop strategic partnerships in Fiji
Individuals wanting to learn about Fiji's growing and dynamic economy
Notable Speakers:
Hon. Manoa Seru Nakausabaria Kamikamica - Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications
Mr. Shaheen Ali - Permanent Secretary of Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications
Mr. Kamal Chetty - Chief Executive Officer of Investment Fiji
Ms. Jenny Seeto - Board Chairperson of Investment Fiji
Mr. Alika Cooper - Trade Commissioner, Fiji Trade Commission North America
Mr. Viliame Baleitavua - Chief Executive Officer of Fiji National Provident Fund
Mr. Craig Strong - Chief Investment Officer of BSP Life Fiji Limited
Ms. Shagufta Janif - Executive Officer of Outsource Fiji
Special Presentations by:
Fiji Airways
iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB)
Tourism Fiji
Continued Engagement:
This forum was part of the ongoing Fiji North-America Business Mission, which aims to showcase Fiji's investment potential across various North American destinations. The mission underscores the long-standing partnership and collaboration between Fiji and Canada, aiming to strengthen this foundation and create opportunities for future generations. The mission also reconnects with the Fijian diaspora, encouraging their contributions to Fiji's economy through investments, knowledge, and skills.
Fiji exporters participating in the Fiji North-America Business Mission recently conducted a market visit in Surrey, British Columbia, aiming to tap into the vibrant Canadian market. Representing various sectors, including Fiji Agro Marketing, Ranviz Fresh Farm Produce, Kavalicious-Taveuni, VaiWai, and Sea&Soil, these business leaders engaged in networking sessions with Canadian businesses that specialize in authentic Fijian products. Productive discussions with major distributors responsible for importing Fijian goods into Canada were held, and the business representatives are set to send product samples to negotiate further export opportunities.
In a related community event in Surrey, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, praised the Fijian diaspora for their achievements and contributions in Canada. Leading a delegation of government representatives, private sector executives, and business leaders, Hon. Kamikamica highlighted the mission's focus on reconnecting with the diaspora and exploring business prospects.
This inaugural visit of Fijian investment and trade representatives to Canada aims to strengthen trade and investment relations between the two countries. Hon. Kamikamica also announced Canada’s intention to establish an embassy in Fiji, expected to enhance bilateral relations at the government level.
The mission, organized in collaboration with Investment Fiji, the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and the Fiji Trade Commission North America, underscores the importance of deepening economic ties and exploring new avenues for growth. The visit included a traditional reception ceremony by the Semiahmoo First Nations people and the iTaukei Cultural Society of British Columbia, as well as participation in a combined church service, reflecting the cultural exchange and hospitality extended during the Fijian delegation's visit.
Footnotes:
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