Fiji-China Cooperation Agreement ushers in new era of cooperation – FBC News

The recent Memorandum of Understanding between Fiji and China, signed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during his visit to China, does not impose any legal obligations but establishes a framework for renewed and deepened partnerships.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Communications Manoa Kamikamica said that the agreement aims to support sustainable and inclusive growth within the blue economy, promoting investments, good business practices and environmental protection.

It emphasizes that the agreement is a strategic tool for developing cooperation in the field of maritime economy.

Kamikamica states that this is in line with Fiji’s national goals and broader Pacific regional strategies. The Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China is a key partner in this initiative.

He says the agreement builds on the previous government’s Blue Town initiative in Savusavu, expanding it to a national scale under the current administration.

“In supporting new growth drivers in the Blue Economy, Mr Chairman, Sir, the MOU considers expansion sectors such as fisheries, marine tourism and ocean renewable energy. This diversification is key to creating sustainable revenue streams that will support Fiji’s long-term economic resilience.”

Kamikamica says the broader scope aims to boost investment in key sectors such as fishing, marine tourism and ocean renewable energy, which are essential for Fiji’s long-term economic resilience.

The Minister said the agreement is in line with the Blue Pacific Strategy 2050, which will make Fiji a centre for investment in the blue economy in the Pacific.

Kamikamica believes that this agreement will create attractive platforms for foreign direct investment, support infrastructure development and increase the number of jobs.

He added that another important element of the agreement is the emphasis on capacity building and knowledge and technology transfer.

Kamikamica believes this will improve the skills of Fiji’s workers and make local businesses more competitive internationally.

Collaboration with research institutions is expected to stimulate innovation and encourage the sustainable use of marine resources.

Kamikamica also reveals that the agreement has already generated early investor interest, including talks with a Hong Kong investor who is exploring the possibility of oyster and giant prawn farming in Fiji.

These initial achievements are seen as potential early benefits of the strategic partnership.