Mr. Speaker Sir,

I thank the Honourable Member for the question.

Mr. Speaker, the United States remains a significant export market for Fiji. However, even prior to the recent tariff developments with the U.S., the Government has been acutely aware of the importance of diversifying our markets to ensure that our exporters are not overly dependent on a single destination.

Mr. Speaker, in this regard, Fiji has been actively engaging with alternative markets that present real opportunities for our agricultural products.

However, Mr. Speaker Sir,

While exploring markets such as Singapore, we must also acknowledge the realities of entry into such a competitive and sophisticated marketplace. Singapore is a global hub where only the highest quality, most competitively positioned products can thrive. This presents challenges for smaller economies like ours, given the strict regulatory requirements, high logistics costs, and competition from larger regional suppliers.

However, these challenges are not barriers — they are benchmarks. They push us to lift our standards, strengthen our branding, and focus on niche, high-value products that tell the unique Fijian story. Our strategy is therefore to position Fiji not as a mass supplier, but as a source of premium, sustainable, and authentic Pacific products that can stand out in such discerning markets.

Singapore also serves as a global re-export hub into Southeast Asia. Turmeric and ginger, in particular, are increasingly in demand in health-conscious and niche food segments in that part of the world. To support this potential, we are working closely with the private sector to strengthen buyer connections and to ensure that our exporters meet the certification and import requirements of the Singaporean and other Asian markets.

Similarly, Mr. Speaker Sir,

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) also presents another promising destination for Fijian products. Dubai, in particular, is a major re-export hub into the Middle East, North Africa and beyond.

We are actively working with the UAE to commence negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, while at the same time ensuring that our exporters are aware and able to meet the halal and other regulatory standards required to succeed in this market.

Mr. Speaker, I must stress that market diversification is not simply about finding new buyers. It requires building strength and resilience across the entire value chain. This means investment in quality standards, reliable certification, and consistent production volumes. Through the Ministry’s MSME support programmes, and in close collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, we are equipping our farmers and exporters with the tools they need — from capacity building to value-addition and export-readiness. This ensures that Fiji’s agricultural products are competitive and can command a premium in global markets.

Mr Speaker Sir,

Our turmeric exports reached $25.4 million in 2024, with the United States as the main market, alongside smaller exports to New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. Ginger exports totaled $9.93 million, primarily to Australia and the United States, with additional shipments to Europe, New Zealand, Canada, and the UAE. Cassava exports amounted to $2.37 million, mainly going to New Zealand and Australia, followed by the United States and regional Pacific markets.

These figures demonstrate that these commodities are important contributors to our agricultural exports. At the same time, they highlight the need to move up the value chain. At present, a significant share of our exports are in raw or semi-processed form. By investing in value addition — such as processing turmeric into capsules and wellness supplements, ginger into extracts and beverages, and cassava into flour and ready-to-cook products — we can secure higher returns for our farmers, create new employment opportunities, and increase Fiji’s competitiveness globally. Value-added products also have longer shelf life, greater branding potential, and allow us to tap into high-growth segments of the global food and health industries.

Mr. Speaker Sir

Trade today is about influence and trusted partnerships as much as access. Fiji is not a rule-taker. We are at the WTO tables and in PACER Plus discussions, ensuring that when trade rules are written, the voice of small island economies is heard.

And yes, when U.S. tariffs on Fijian goods spiked, we didn’t just complain we negotiated. Our advocacy helped secure a cut from an initial 32 percent down to 15 percent, and we continue to push for zero duties on Fijian products.

Mr. Speaker Sir

In addition to diversifying markets and products, Fiji is also modernising the way trade operates domestically. We have launched the Fiji Trade Information Portal, providing exporters with up-to-date and transparent information on market requirements, tariffs, and procedures. Work is also underway for the National Single Window System, which will simplify border processes and reduce trade costs.

Through the Ease of Doing Business Project, digital platforms are being rolled out to streamline regulatory processes, including the “Starting a Business” e-service and the upcoming Building Permits Approval Subsystem (BPAS), which will further reduce bureaucratic delays and enhance service delivery for exporters and investors alike.

Mr. Speaker Sir,

Turmeric, ginger and cassava are important, but they are not the sum of our ambition. That is why we are simultaneously promoting kava, aquaculture, sustainable seafood, cocoa, coffee and other niche green products. Our exporters are exploring everything from artisan chocolate to digital services, proving that Fiji’s economic identity is diverse and dynamic.

So to the Honourable Member’s question: yes, we are exploring Singapore, the UAE and beyond. But this is not a journey the Government can take alone. It requires the collective effort of our farmers, processors, exporters, and our development partners. Together, we are ensuring that Fiji’s products carry not just commercial value, but also the story of a resilient Pacific nation competing with confidence on the world stage.

Through market diversification, value addition, and trade modernisation, Fiji is not only safeguarding the livelihoods of our people but also securing our place in a competitive global economy.

Vinaka vakalevu, Mr. Speaker Sir.