Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) Australia’s trade team recently embarked on a trade mission to Fiji, marking a first for newly appointed Export Services Manager, Maeva O’Donnell. Accompanied by PTI Australia’s Acting Trade Commissioner, Jeremy Grennell, the mission focused on meeting with clients and stakeholders to progress existing projects as identified through PTI’s digital pipeline, while also attending the Phama Plus Program Coordinating Committee meeting – a 2-day event where PTI received an update on both the programs progress, and insights into country and sector strategies.
During the mission the team met with exporters, including Down to Earth Fiji, Vinaka Farm, Pleass Global Ltd, and Punjas & Sons Ltd. PTI Australia also engaged with partners, including PHAMA Plus, to progress collaboration efforts for inclusive market entry for Fiji-based farmers, growers and agricultural businesses.
Maeva O’Donnell said that this mission was crucial in acquiring in-depth, on-the-ground insights, and served as a strategic opportunity to expedite the process of building and strengthening relationships with her clients.
“This business mission to Fiji proved to be vital for deepening my understanding of my clients’ businesses. Getting the chance to physically walk through factories, fields or manufacturing spaces, allows me to garner an appreciation for not only the ample opportunities and possibilities available to these individual businesses, but also for factors that may have to be navigated, mitigated, or where additional support would be most beneficial.”
She added: “This trip was an important part of my introduction to the PTI family, colleagues and clients alike, and I am thankful for the time and effort taken by these businesses to meet with me and introduce me to their operations. I look forward to fostering ongoing and fruitful relationships with exporters across Fiji.”
Maeva O’Donnell joins PTI Australia as a trade and business development expert with global trading and supply chain management experience across the Chemical, Plastics, Food and Logistics industries. Originally from New Zealand, with strong family ties to Tahiti, she is passionate about contributing the Pacific’s strategic approach to private sector growth and the region’s engagement with foreign markets.
Founded in 1979, PTI Australia is an agency of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat. Funded by the Australian Government, it facilitates trade and investment in the Pacific Islands.
For more information regarding Fiji exports to the Australian market, reach out to the team here.
