It was a significant moment for Investment Fiji to formalize a Memorandum of Cooperation(MoC) with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) during the 10thPacific Island Leaders Meeting (PALM) in Tokyo, Japan this morning.

 The MoC was signed by Investment Fiji Chief Executive Officer Kamal Chetty and Japan External Trade Organisation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Norihiko Ishiguro, in the presence of the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka.

 "This agreement represents a significant milestone in our bilateral relations with Japan and sets the stage for robust collaboration aimed at enhancing trade and investment opportunities between Fiji and Japan," stated Investment Fiji Chief Executive Officer Kamal Chetty.

 "The Japan External Trade Organization has been a steadfast partner in fostering economic ties across the Pacific region, and we are honored to embark on this journey of cooperation with them,” mentioned Chetty.

 The primary objective of the MoC is to bolster bilateral cooperation through technical collaboration in trade and investment activities, adhering to respective laws and regulations.

 For Fiji, the agreement leads to increased Japanese investment, access to advanced technology, and expertise to propel economic growth. Conversely, Japan gains new business opportunities and enhanced market presence in the Pacific.

 Key initiatives under the MoC include information exchange on trade and investment opportunities, policy and research material sharing, and joint organization of investment missions and seminars.

 These efforts aim to facilitate robust engagement between business communities and promote investment between Fiji and Japan.

 “Following the signing ceremony, Investment Fiji's immediate focus will be on establishing effective communication channels with JETRO and initiating exchanges on trade and investment prospects. Collaboration will extend to organizing investment missions and seminars to create conducive environments for prospective investors from both countries,” highlighted Chetty.

 Chetty also emphasized the transformative impact of the MoC on Fiji's economy, foreseeing increased Japanese investments across sectors, strengthened export capabilities, and enhanced innovation through knowledge exchange.

 He highlighted the MoC’s role in stimulating Fiji's economic foundations and positioning Fiji as an attractive global investment destination.

 “I extend my gratitude to JETRO, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of Fiji His Excellency MICHII Rokuichiro San and his team, Fiji’s Ambassador to Japan His Excellency Filimone Waqabaca and his team at the Fiji Embassy, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, and all stakeholders involved for their dedication and support in bringing this MoC to fruition. I am confident that this partnership will yield fruitful outcomes for both nations, driving sustainable growth and prosperity.”

 “We believe that this MoC will serve as a foundation for more active trade and investment exchanges between the two countries and contribute to the creation of a stable Indo-Pacific business environment.” stated JETRO Chairman and CEO Norihiko Ishiguro.