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Fiji’s Investment Agency Joins Anti-Bribery Crusade Amid Concerns Over Economic Growth

In an effort to combat corruption, Investment Fiji has joined the “I Don’t Accept Bribes” campaign, a joint initiative by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with funding from the New Zealand Government.

Launch of Anti-Bribery Campaign

The launch event on April 13, 2022, brought together executives from Investment Fiji, FICAC, and UNDP to emphasize the importance of good governance and transparency in economic development. The campaign aligns with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, specifically targeting Sustainable Development Goal 16, which calls for countries to improve their governance systems and combat corruption.

Commitment to Professionalism and Transparency

In a keynote address, Acting CEO Kamal Chetty stressed Investment Fiji’s commitment to professionalism and transparency in its role as an investment promotion agency. “Our ethical standards reflect who we are, and as we transition towards becoming a fully-pledged Investment Promotion Agency, the government has high expectations from us,” he said. “It is essential that we train our employees on anti-bribery measures to protect our organization from corruption-related risks.”

Bribery and Corruption: Major Obstacles to Economic Growth

Bribery and corruption have long been major obstacles to economic growth in Fiji, with detrimental effects on productivity levels. Chetty highlighted how widespread corruption deters investment, weakens economic growth, and undermines the rule of law.

Critical Role of Investment Fiji

FICAC’s Manager of Corruption Prevention, Kolora Celua, emphasized Investment Fiji’s critical role in engaging with foreign investors and exporters while maintaining its integrity as an independent and transparent agency. UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji Anti-Corruption Adviser Sonja Stefanovska-Trajnoska noted that if Fiji is to continue growing economically and creating skilled jobs for young people, bribery and corruption must be kept out of investment and trade promotion decisions.

Commitment to Integrity

The “I Don’t Accept Bribes” badges presented to Investment Fiji symbolize its commitment to integrity and determination to deliver a more prosperous future for all Fijians.