Fiji had a population of 884,900 at the time of the 2017 National Census, which was an annual growth of 0.6% since the previous 2007 census.

Out of the total population, 55.9% live in urban areas and the median age was 27.5 years.

This was highlighted by Green Global Growth Institute Consultant Peter Johnston during the launch of Fiji Green Jobs Assessment.

The project is the study that assesses opportunities for expanding green jobs in Fiji consistent with national policies, plans, priorities, National Development commitments and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Johnston says the population aged 15 years and over was 625,099 in 2017 with a labour force of 356,789 and a labour force participation rate of 57.1%

However, the labour force participation rate was 76.4% for males and only 37.4% for females.

He adds the official unemployment rate is 4.5%

Meanwhile, Deputy Secretary for Employment Sowani Puamau welcomes this initiative as it is their main objective to reduce the current unemployment rate.