Global remittances have significantly bolstered Fiji’s economy, contributing around 10 percent to the nation’s ‘Gross Domestic Product’ or GDP – over the past five years.

Between 2019 and 2023, Fijians abroad sent home around $4.5 billion, underscoring the critical role of the diaspora, in national economic development.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade – Manoa Kamikamica acknowledges the Fijian diaspora’s contribution to national development.

“Personal remittances increased by 23.2 percent to $1.1723 billion in the 2022/2023 period. This figures have been increasing on an average of 17 percent since 2019”, Kamikamica said.

“To put this into perspective, it is almost 10 percent of the national GDP”, he added.

He urges government to explore more opportunities to engage with Fijians living abroad, fostering stronger ties and encouraging knowledge transfer.

“Many of our diaspora members including those in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are eager to do more, they want to invest in Fiji, plan for retirement and actively participate in the country’s development. What they often lack is information and support and the right policies to turn these aspirations into reality”, Kamikamica said.

He urges government to explore more opportunities to engage with Fijians living abroad, fostering stronger ties and encouraging knowledge transfer.

Of the total number of remittances recorded, 44 percent were from Australia, while USA recorded the second highest at 24 percent – increasing personal remittances by 23.2 percent.