Fiji’s PS Nemani Champions Green Productivity at Regional Meeting in Japan

Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Maritino Nemani, has positioned Fiji as a vocal advocate for sustainable development at the Green Productivity (GP) 2.0 Council Meeting in Osaka, Japan.

Representing Fiji in his capacity as APO Director and Chair of the Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), Nemani highlighted Fiji’s commitment to the Green Productivity framework, describing it as an “action-oriented approach” that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supports national climate priorities.

“As a vulnerable Pacific Island country, Fiji understands the urgent need to promote sustainable practices, not only within our borders but across the wider Pacific region,” Nemani told the gathering of regional leaders and policy experts.

Fiji’s presence at the meeting follows its successful hosting of the 65th Workshop Meeting of Heads of National Productivity Organizations (WSM) in 2023. That milestone paved the way for Fiji to officially join the GP 2.0 Council, following an invitation from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Nemani was joined by a high-level delegation including officials from the Ministries of Agriculture, Employment, and Foreign Affairs, reinforcing a whole-of-government push to integrate climate resilience and innovation into Fiji’s economic development strategies.

Also addressing the council was Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Hon. Agni Deo Singh, who said the Green Productivity model offered real opportunities to transform the agriculture sector, reduce environmental impacts, and secure long-term livelihoods.

The council meeting, hosted by the APO, focused on advancing sustainable productivity models for Asia and the Pacific in the face of rising climate challenges.