Vosarogo Says Opposition Economic Narrative Ignores Global Shocks

Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo says Fiji’s continued economic growth and strong foreign reserves show the country has remained resilient despite significant global pressures.

Vosarogo said Fiji has had to navigate wars in Europe and the Middle East, global fuel price shocks, rising food prices and disruptions to international trade while continuing its economic recovery.

He said these factors were often left out when opponents of the Government criticised its economic management.

“Yet for the past three years, our opponents have sought to build a narrative of economic mismanagement. What is conveniently left out is that Fiji has had to recover while navigating wars in Europe and the Middle East, fuel price shocks, rising global food prices and disruptions to international trade,” Vosarogo said.

He pointed to Fiji’s foreign reserves of $3.9 billion as an important buffer against external shocks.

“Healthy foreign reserves are critical for a country like Fiji. Put simply, they help ensure we can continue paying for the fuel, food, medicine and other essential goods we import, while giving our economy a buffer when global shocks occur.”

Vosarogo credited Fijian workers, businesses and investors for continuing to keep economic activity moving despite the challenges.

He also acknowledged the Ministry of Finance, the Reserve Bank of Fiji and other financial and economic institutions for their contribution.

“Thank you to all Fijians who have contributed to this progress,” Vosarogo said.