Budget Will Build Local Workforce, Says Nemani

Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Jone Maritino Nemani says the 2026-2027 National Budget will play a key role in building a stronger and more competitive local workforce through increased investment in skills development, training and labour market reforms.

Nemani welcomed several workforce-focused measures announced in the Budget, describing them as important investments in Fiji's future economic growth and long-term prosperity.

One of the most significant announcements, he said, was the Government's decision to direct a greater proportion of National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) levy funding towards training and skills development.

From 1 January 2027, 50 percent of the levy will be allocated directly to skills development initiatives, a substantial increase from the current allocation.

Nemani said the move would help ensure workers have access to opportunities that allow them to gain new skills, improve productivity and remain competitive as industries continue to evolve.

He also welcomed the introduction of a 200 percent tax deduction for eligible employer training and upskilling expenditure, saying the measure would encourage businesses to invest more heavily in developing their employees.

According to Nemani, workforce development requires a collective effort between Government, employers and workers.

He said increased investment in training would create pathways for higher productivity, stronger workplace performance and better employment outcomes for Fijians.

The Permanent Secretary also praised the allocation of funding for a review of Fiji's minimum wage framework.

He said the review would provide an opportunity to ensure wage-setting decisions remain fair, transparent and sustainable while balancing the needs of workers and businesses.

Nemani noted that strong wages and strong productivity must go hand in hand if Fiji is to continue improving living standards while supporting economic growth and job creation.

He said the Budget measures complement the Ministry's ongoing work to strengthen workforce readiness, improve labour mobility opportunities, enhance occupational health and safety outcomes and modernise Fiji's labour market institutions.

Nemani added that the future success of Fiji's economy will depend heavily on the skills, knowledge and capabilities of its people.

He thanked the Coalition Government for recognising the critical role workforce development plays in driving economic growth and improving the lives of ordinary Fijians.

"Every dollar invested in skills development is an investment in a worker, a family, a business and ultimately the future prosperity of our nation," he said.

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