The U.S. Department of State’s Investment Climate Statements provide information on the business climates of more than 170 economies and are prepared by economic officers stationed in embassies and posts around the world.  They analyze a variety of economies that are or could be markets for U.S. businesses.  The Investment Climate Statements are also references for working with partner governments to create enabling business environments that are not only economically sound, but address issues of labor, human rights, responsible business conduct, and steps taken to combat corruption.  The reports cover topics including Openness to Investment, Legal and Regulatory Systems, Protection of Real and Intellectual Property Rights, Financial Sector, State-Owned Enterprises, Responsible Business Conduct, and Corruption.

Executive Summary

Fiji has traditionally been the economic, transportation, and academic hub of the South Pacific islands.  The economy is experiencing a strong recovery and rebound after the sharp contraction caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The recovery is driven by the return of tourism and increased consumption spending.  Following an estimated growth of 15.6 percent in 2022, the economy is estimated to expand by 6 percent in 2023.  The government anticipates that the economy will rebound to a pre-pandemic level by 2024, but its outlook is vulnerable to continuing geopolitical tensions, threats of natural disaster, and the government’s large public debt.  As of July 2022, the public debt exceeded 90 percent of Fiji’s GDP.  The government welcomes foreign investment and parliament passed the Investment Act 2021 to improve the ease of doing business in Fiji.  Investment activity improved in 2022 and is expected to pick up following the peaceful transition of government after general elections were held in 2022.  U.S. exports to Fiji totaled over $64 million in 2022.  The United States is Fiji’s top export market.  In 2022, U.S. consumers bought over $288 million in Fijian goods and services.

Fiji has trade and investment potential and offers incentives to encourage investments in agriculture, residential housing development, energy, audio and visual, retirement village/aged care facilities, health sector, tourism, manufacturing, and the information communication technology (ICT)/business process outsourcing (BPO) sector.

To access the full text of the 2023 ICS, visit the U.S. Department of State Investment Climate Statements website.