Jobs more important

than trade figures

Jobs are more important than fi gures, according to Peter Thomson, Fiji’s consul-general in Sydney and one of the front line “troops” in the assault on Australia’s markets.

“Manufacturing industries create jobs for our people,” he said. “That’s why exports are so vital in Fiji’s development.

“There is still much to be done,” he said. “But Mr Dawkins’ announce ment of the early removal of many of the trade restrictions represents a real opportunity.”

For although the traditional ex ports of gold and coconut oil still dominated Fiji’s exports to Australia, “there have been meaningful in creases in garments, furniture, tim ber products and fresh produce.”

Mr Thomson said Fiji was very grateful for Australia’s decision to bring forward the easing of the restrictions by six months.

“For Fiji export industries in

particular the furniture industry it means an extra six months of duty free access that they would not otherwise have had,” he told PIM.

“There will be a definite and im mediate impact on Fiji exports.”

Mr Thomson said the Fiji govern ment, while extremely grateful for Australia’s helpful decision, still hoped to continue to improve access for Fiji exports.

“Fiji businessmen have shown that they can compete with the best.

Despite the restrictions, many of which have now been removed, our exports have been moving ahead at a steady pace.

“If we can do that while restric tions are in place, we must be able to do even better now.

“I believe the Australian govern ment’s decision represents a wonderful opportunity and it’s up to Fiji’s exporters now not to let that opportunity pass them by.”