Fiji could soon see a return to shipbuilding capabilities and an improvement to port infrastructure after Cabinet agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Australia.
 
Australia has committed to provide assistance through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility in the Pacific (AIFFP) which will provide initial grant financing to the Fiji Government and the Fiji Ports Corporation Limited to support preparatory phases to improve the ports infrastructure and services. Australia will also provide grant financing to the Ministry of Public Enterprises for technical assistance.
 
The MOU will assist in the development of the shipbuilding sector through the development of Fiji’s port facilities.
 
The revival of the shipbuilding industry in Fiji has been articulated as a key priority for the Coalition Government. It has the potential to increase job opportunities, develop and expand specialised skill-sets amongst Fiji nationals and stimulate investment and economic growth.