Radika Kumar has officially taken up her role as the new Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Business Development.

Dr Kumar began work on Monday, 4 May 2026, bringing with her extensive experience in economics, trade, business and public sector leadership gained both locally and internationally.

She recently met ministry staff at the department’s headquarters, while employees from other offices joined the session virtually through Zoom.

On Monday, 12 May 2026, she also held talks with Finance, Commerce and Business Development Minister Esrom Immanuel.

Dr Kumar holds a PhD in Economics, an MBA and additional qualifications in finance, business, artificial intelligence and education. Her academic background also includes studies at the University of Oxford and the University of the South Pacific.

Over the past 18 years, she has worked in senior positions with the Fiji Government, the United Nations, the World Trade Organization and the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Speaking to staff, Dr Kumar said she hopes to build a positive and supportive workplace culture where employees feel respected and appreciated.

She encouraged workers to speak openly about any personal or professional challenges they may face, saying she wants the ministry to be an environment where people enjoy coming to work and support one another.

Dr Kumar also stressed the importance of family and reminded staff that every employee plays an important role in the ministry’s success.

She said she is honoured to return home to serve Fiji and aims to help strengthen the economy, support small businesses, promote digital innovation and create opportunities for communities across the country.