PM Updates Parliament on Opportunities for Fijians in Japan

Japan’s growing labour shortages are opening new doors for Fijians, with structured employment programs in aviation, agriculture, and caregiving offering training, fair wages, and cultural exposure.

While updating Parliament on his recent official visit to Japan — which included a tour of Narita Airport — Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, External Trade, Civil Service, and Public Enterprises, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka, shared insights from his meetings with Fijians currently working under Japan’s foreign skilled worker program.

“These Fijians shared their experiences of how the Japanese work culture has developed their work ethics, enhancing key aspects such as time management, respect, diligence, and honesty,” Hon. Rabuka told Parliament.

He said Japan’s labour gaps, particularly in aviation, agriculture, and caregiving, have created pathways for Fijians to work under structured programs that ensure training, fair incomes, and meaningful cultural exchange.

“These programs not only provide Fijians with valuable international experience and earnings, it also allows them to bring back advanced skills that can contribute to Fiji’s national development,” the Prime Minister said.

Rabuka described his visit as “an enlightening experience,” emphasising that Japanese culture offers principles that strengthen modern work environments.

“Japanese culture offers valuable principles that enhance modern work environments, particularly through its emphasis on discipline, respect, and continuous improvement. Our people can learn from the Japanese work culture by embracing these values to enhance both individual performance and organisational success,” he said.