As Fiji experiences rapid growth in digital entrepreneurship, the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, MSMEs and Communications has issued a strong advisory for aspiring and existing online business operators to remain vigilant against scams and deceptive schemes.
At the First Offline Meeting of Fijian Digital Business Owners, held on 30 May 2025 at the Southern Cross Hotel in Suva, Permanent Secretary Shaheen Ali recognised the growing momentum of Fiji’s digital MSMEs but warned that opportunity brings risk.
“As opportunity increases, so too do risks. We must be vigilant against scams, misinformation, and cyber threats,” Mr. Ali said in his keynote address.
Drawing on examples of fraud targeting Fijians through social media and online platforms, Mr. Ali emphasised the importance of digital literacy, personal responsibility, and community awareness.
“Fijians are known for our warmth and trust. But we must not let that trust be exploited. We have seen too many cases where people have been drawn into schemes that promised quick money, easy gains, or global networks, only to find themselves financially and emotionally defrauded,” he said.
He encouraged attendees to remain alert and informed, especially when presented with too-good-to-be-true promises. “I say this with all sincerity: be cautious. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Mr. Ali reiterated the Ministry’s support for authentic digital businesses, noting government efforts to create an enabling and secure environment. Key initiatives include:
- The BusinessNOW platform for simplified business registration
- Partnership with development agencies to deliver digital and financial literacy training
- The rollout of 5G and universal internet access
- Launching the National Cybersecurity Strategy by year’s end
- Establishment of Fiji CERT to respond to cyber incidents
The Permanent Secretary also commended participants for showing initiative and community spirit.
“What you’re building here isn’t just a set of businesses, it’s a movement. A community of resilient, like-minded entrepreneurs who support and learn from each other.”
The Ministry urges all Fijians engaged in digital business to stay informed, operate responsibly, and report questionable schemes. As we grow Fiji’s digital economy, we must build not just opportunity, but trust, transparency, and long-term resilience.
-ENDS-