On 23 July 2025, Fiji’s Cabinet approved a transformative five-year plan aimed at bolstering micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) along with endorsing the National Digital Strategy. The twin initiatives are designed to chart a strategic path for economic diversification and digital inclusion.
The MSME plan, developed in collaboration with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), focuses on strengthening business capacity, improving access to finance, and expanding market reach. MSMEs form the backbone of Fiji’s economy, accounting for a significant share of employment and GDP. The government will introduce increased support mechanisms such as training programmes, simplified licensing processes, and loan facilities tailored to small-scale operators. The aim is to boost resilience and competitiveness, particularly in rural and remote communities.
At the same Cabinet meeting on 23 July, ministers endorsed a Letter of Agreement with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) to provide a US $100,000 grant that will support the initial implementation of the National Digital Strategy. This strategy, which was officially launched on 3 April 2025, sets out a roadmap to digitise public services, foster e-commerce capabilities and enhance digital literacy across the country. It includes plans to upgrade broadband infrastructure in order to close the connectivity gap between urban and rural areas. Government services, from tax filings to licensing, will migrate to more efficient digital platforms to reduce administrative delays and improve accessibility for citizens and businesses.
By combining MSME support with digital transformation, Fiji is creating a framework where digitally enabled businesses can reach wider markets, manage operations more effectively and participate in online trade. Training programmes will help entrepreneurs adopt tools such as bookkeeping software and social media marketing.
Private sector groups and development partners have welcomed the initiatives as timely and forward looking. They have noted that MSMEs and digital infrastructure can work in tandem to boost productivity, expand economic participation and build resilience.
Together, the five-year MSME plan and the National Digital Strategy signal a decisive step towards modernising Fiji’s economy and preparing it for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
