1/30/2014

The Director Executive of International Trade Centre (ITC), Arancha Gonzalez, has indicated that the ITC sees potential and opportunities in working with the Fijian Government.

The possibility of ITC partnering with the Fijian Government so that ITC programmes and projects could bring more benefit to Fijians was discussed during a bilateral meeting between the Attorney-General and Minister for Industry and Trade, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Ms Gonzalez, held on 28 January 2014, in Bangalore, India.

The Attorney-General underscored to Ms. Gonzalez that given the reforms undertaken by the Bainimarama Government that, accordingly, ITC needs to collaborate closely with Government to ensure that there is alignment and synergy with these policies so that tangible results based on sustainability are realized. Such an approach will result in growth and benefits for the grassroots Fijian - those in most need.

"We are glad that ITC has agreed to partner with the Fijian Government and work through the Ministry of Industry and Trade, for example to provide assistance in the Cooperatives sector," he said.

"Additionally the ITC has also agreed to provide assistance through the NCSMED for the development of small and micro enterprises - through provision of assistance, development of new products, developing new markets, and training to small and micro businesses," added the Minister.

Upon Fiji's request, ITC has also agreed to assist in the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement that was agreed to by the WTO Leaders in Bali, Indonesia.

"This cooperation between Fiji and ITC will create opportunities not only for the growth of the SME and Cooperative sector in Fiji, but also for Fijian products and services in the international market," the Minister said

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