Permanent Secretary for Industry and Trade Shaheen Ali has commenced consultations with industry stakeholders to take advantage of the positive discussions on rules of origin held between the 14 Pacific ACP States (PACPS) and the European Union (EU) in December 2012.
Ali said the Government, together with the other 13 Pacific ACP States (PACPS) has been negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the European Commission (EC) to provide market to Fijian made products and produce.
Ali added that manufactured product such as a life jacket is currently required to meet at least 60% threshold in terms of Local Area Content or 60% of local ex-factory cost to qualify for “duty free quota free” access into the EU market.
According to Ali, this approach will ensure Fiji and the region negotiates the best possible agreement that will enhance our exports and support our development aspirations.
Story by: Rusiate Baleilevuka
