Fiji: Stronger growth to resume in 2017 The ANZ Bank says while Fiji faces no risk of recession, the rate of economic growth is expected to slow. In an Economic Outlook released this week, economists Kishti Sen and Tom Kenny forecast that Fiji’s GDP will grow by 2.8% in 2025, 2.6% next year, and then accelerate in 2027. They believe visitor arrivals have “likely peaked for Fiji in terms of tourism’s contribution to GDP growth,” and that it may be difficult to attract more visitors from Australia and New Zealand. The ANZ economists write that Fiji is “building a solid investment pipeline for non-dwelling buildings” and that building approvals are expected to remain strong in volume and value this year and next. They write that private sector investment is emerging, although some businesses are finding conditions challenging, and that consumer demand is expected to lose some momentum as remittances slow. Fiji Business Mover and Shakers FijiCare Insurance has appointed Jessica Lal as the company’s new secretary. Lal brings a wealth of experience in legal affairs and compliance and will be responsible for ensuring that FijiCare adheres to all corporate governance and regulatory requirements. Fiji Airways has appointed two local women to top executive roles. AnnaMorris has been appointed Chief People Officer. Since joining Fiji Airways in 2015, she has focused on employee engagement and workplace culture. Kamal Haerhas been appointed as Chief Sales and Marketing Officer. She has led teams across multiple industries in Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Bali and Japan. Before Fiji Airways, Kamal was Regional Director of Sales, Marketing and Revenue Management for IHG Hotels in Greater Tokyo & Okinawa. Kamal was also the first local Head of Marketing, Sales and Distribution for ANZ Bank, Pacific Retail. FNPF changes housing withdrawal policy The Fiji National Provident Fund has made significant changes to its housing withdrawal assistance policy, aimed at providing greater flexibility and support to members in their home ownership journey. Effective 1st March 2025, these key policy changes are: New Purpose Completion – Members who have started construction projects using their own funds can now apply for FNPF assistance to complete their homes. Quick Repairs – The minimum withdrawal for quick repairs has been set at $1000 with a maximum of $5000. Construction – The minimum withdrawal amount for construction has been increased to $15,000 (previously $10,000) reflecting the rising costs of building materials and labour. Home Loan Reduction – Members can now access up to 10% of their balance for home loan reduction, providing a significant boost to those with low General Account balances. Surveying Fees – Surveying fees for unsurveyed land can now be sourced from FNPF funds to get a proper registered title. Thereafter, members can apply to build using their funds as collateral towards further financial assistance. Tourism Fiji x Mastercard Tourism Fiji has announced its partnership withMastercard as the premium sponsor for the upcoming Tourism Super Week and Cruise Symposium, set to take place from May 5 to 9, 2025. The event will showcase Fiji’s thriving tourism industry. This collaboration emphasizes Mastercard’s commitment to supporting Fijian businesses by providing valuable insights, methodologies, and practical actions aimed at driving exponential growth while ensuring safety and security for business of all sizes.