EU ready to offer investments, innovative projects to Pacific region countries

Leaders from the European Union and the Pacific launch the first-ever EU–Pacific Business Forum, held in Nadi, Fiji on September 4-5. This historic event will help strengthen EU-Pacific Partnership and advance mutual trade and investment ties, Report informs referring to the EU website.

Organised by the EU in partnership with the International Trade Centre, it is designed to foster sustainable, inclusive economic growth through strategic partnerships, innovative business models, and quality investment under the EU"s Global Gateway strategy. European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela will participate in the Forum together with high representatives of 15 Pacific countries and of the three French Overseas territories in the Pacific. Together, they will make several announcements advancing the EU-Pacific partnership.

Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela said: "The EU–Pacific Business Forum is the first of its kind and proof that the European Union is serious about this partnership – I am happy to deliver here concrete deals together with our partners, projects, finance, and long-term commitment. We aim to unlock new opportunities for Pacific businesses and local communities, particularly in renewable energy, agriculture, and the blue economy, while supporting the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which are the backbone of the Pacific economy. I look forward to exchange with our Pacific partners on how we can work together to attract investments, create jobs, improve connectivity, and promote economic cooperation with the region, in line with the EU"s Global Gateway strategy." 

Deputy Prime Minister of Fiji, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica said: "The inaugural EU–Pacific Business Forum marks a new chapter in our partnership with the European Union-one that goes beyond dialogue and moves towards concrete investment, innovation, and trade opportunities. Fiji is proud to host this important event, which will unlock pathways for our businesses, empower our MSMEs, and strengthen our shared commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth. Together, the EU and Pacific can harness our unique strengths to build resilient economies and a prosperous future for our people."

The inaugural EU-Pacific Business Forum will bring together high-level EU and Pacific policymakers, private sector leaders, investors and development partners to foster stronger economic ties between the two regions under the EU-Pacific Economic Partnership Agreement.

The Forum will showcase opportunities and means for Pacific businesses, in particular micro, small and medium enterprises, to engage with European markets.

In alignment with the EU Global Gateway strategy and Green Deal, the focus sectors of the EU-Pacific Business Forum will be renewable energy, agriculture, fisheries and the blue economy alongside green innovation, digital connectivity, and inclusive infrastructure.

With the participation of the European Union and its Member States, the 15 Pacific Island Countries, and the three French Overseas territories in the Pacific, the EU-Pacific Business Forum will also be a platform for fostering intra-Pacific trade and regional integration: Pacific unity, shared prosperity, and a future shaped by collaboration.

The trade relationship between the Pacific and the EU has historically been strong and remains important for both regions. Between 2014 and 2024, total bilateral trade averaged €3.3 billion, with a value of €3.8 billion in 2024.

The Pacific Islands and the EU are the only two regions in the world that have committed to achieving net zero by 2050. This commitment aims to address climate change as a critical global issue and boost sustainable, inclusive economic growth.