Minister of State for Trade and Investment Nicola Grigg will travel to Fiji this week to attend the Pacific Island Forum’s Trade Ministers Meeting (FTMM), a key biennial event set to take place in Suva on 18 July.
The meeting brings together regional trade ministers to discuss the future of trade and economic integration across the Pacific.
“Trade plays a critical role in getting more money into your back pocket, helping you and your family to thrive,” Grigg said ahead of her visit. “It drives employment, economic growth, and lifts the standard of living in New Zealand and across the Pacific.”
Grigg emphasised New Zealand’s strong commitment to supporting Pacific nations in leveraging trade for economic development, reaffirming the country’s alignment with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. “New Zealand’s attendance at the FTMM signals our continued commitment to regional cooperation, resilience, and leadership in advancing Pacific trade priorities,” she added.
During her trip, Grigg will also attend a Fiji New Zealand Business Council event, where the Council will launch its new strategy aimed at helping both countries achieve a goal of NZ$2 billion in two-way trade by 2030.
Grigg is also set to engage with fellow ministers from the PACER Plus trade agreement — the region’s largest and most comprehensive trade pact. She highlighted its role in empowering businesses, particularly women-led enterprises, while improving customs efficiency, e-commerce, investment protections, and regulatory cooperation.
“PACER Plus is more than just a trade agreement; it reflects the deep bonds between our nations as neighbours, partners, and family,” Grigg said.
