The Fiji Government, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, hosted a Global Sourcing Workshop in Suva, facilitated by the European Union (EU). The event was designed to assist Pacific Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA) Parties and industry stakeholders in leveraging the Global Sourcing provision under the EU-Pacific IEPA. Held alongside the 11th EU-Pacific IEPA Trade Committee Meeting, the workshop underscored Fiji’s leadership and commitment to trade-driven economic development. Under the Global Sourcing provision, Pacific countries can source fisheries products from around the world, process them locally, and export them to the EU duty-free and quota-free, provided sustainability standards are met. By including all IEPA Parties, Fiji created an inclusive regional platform for knowledge sharing and guidance on investment, value addition, and employment opportunities within the Pacific fisheries sector.
The workshop addressed practical steps for benefiting from Global Sourcing, including compliance with rules of origin, food safety, labelling standards, sustainability requirements, and EU fisheries regulations, as well as international labour standards. Participants from Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands shared successful experiences, highlighting how Global Sourcing has enhanced local fish processing, increased exports, and created jobs, especially for women. Fiji’s recent activation of the provision emphasizes its commitment to developing the fisheries sector and expanding participation in regional and global value chains.
The EU reaffirmed its longstanding partnership with the Pacific, emphasizing its development-oriented trade relationship. The IEPA provides preferential market access to the EU for Pacific partners, reflecting their economic and developmental needs. This access is complemented by EU support for sustainable fisheries management, capacity building, and trade-related development initiatives.
Overall, the workshop highlighted the shared commitment of Fiji, other Pacific IEPA Parties, and the EU to sustainable trade, local industry development, and inclusive economic growth across the Pacific region.
