His Excellency The President of Fiji Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, with the support of the United Kingdom Trade Partnerships Programme, met 4 companies which travelled from Fiji to bring a taste of the Pacific to Europe. Businesses that were part of the showcase include:

• Essence Fiji – Beauty Care
• Naturally Fiji/Punjas – Beauty Care and Biscuits
• Down-to-Earth – Hot sauces
• Daily Good – Healthy Ginger Shots

The trade event took place on 9 September, with Flying Fijians dropping in, and Fijian cultural and ceremonial festivities organised in collaboration with the French Fijians Support Association and the Fijian Permanent Mission in Geneva. H.E The President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, honoured the event and encouraged the business representatives.

The British High Commissioner to Fiji, Dr Brian Jones, said:

We were excited to use the platform of the Flying Fijians at the Rugby World Cup to promote Fijian businesses to UK and European buyers. With the support of H.E The President, the business representatives have done Fiji proud, just like the Flying Fijians. We are working hard to ensure this showcase results in solid business deals being signed for Fijian producers.

The business community had a chance to meet national rugby players in Bordeaux and interacted with a range of leading UK companies working in health care, hospitality, and food distribution, through one of the largest international sports gatherings, aim to expand Fiji’s export reach.

The Rugby World Cup is a unique opportunity for Fiji businesses to attract international recognition and to expand their global reach. This showcased that Fiji’s participation is not limited to the rugby field, but extends to the promotion of the culture, cuisine, and commerce of Fiji. Trade promotion and rugby – a match made in heaven.

About the UK Trade Partnerships Programme

Since 2019, the UKTP Programme has worked with African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries to increase exports to the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) through the better use of Economic Partnership Agreements. The programme partners with government agencies, business support institutions, industry associations and the private sector to improve trade and economic outcomes by taking advantage of duty free and quota free access. It is funded by the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and administered by the International Trade Centre in Geneva, the joint agency of the United Nations and World Trade Organization.