This year marks a decade of Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) Australia’s Pacific Island Export Survey series. Since 2014, PTI has been conducting research into the activities, challenges and opportunities of exporters across the Blue Pacific. The long-standing research project has gone from strength to strength, consistently providing decision-makers with a better understanding of the realities of being an exporter in the region.
In honour of ten years of data, earlier this year PTI commissioned Luke Houghton of the Griffith Asia Institute to conduct a report, “Driving economic resilience: Pacific Trade Investment’s decade of progress”. The report analyses patterns of, and influences on, export growth across the decade.
The recently released report finds that enduring challenges for Pacific exporters include access to finance, supply chain and logistics hurdles, and lack of access to skilled labour. Extreme weather, including cyclones, droughts, and rising sea levels, have had an increasingly severe impact on businesses across the years. In terms of positive shifts, the rise of ecommerce has seen significant growth in the region, notably and most starkly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The report also highlights the remarkable resilience of Pacific exporters, who show tenacity and agility in the face of both changing and compounded systemic challenges. Each survey wave shows diligence and innovation among the exporter community, implementing a wide array of initiatives actioned to increase exports.
Luke Houghton, Associate Professor at Griffith University, said that the report celebrates the incredible resilience of Pacific exporters. while recognising the need for continued collaboration to overcome systemic challenges.
“The survey underscores the essential role of collaborative efforts between governments, regional organisations, and the private sector. Through targeted interventions and sustained support, these partnerships have helped foster growth and stability, even in the face of significant obstacles,” he said.
“The Pacific Islands Export Survey not only sheds light on the experiences of businesses over the past decade, but also serves as a roadmap for the future. By identifying key areas for improvement and celebrating the achievements of resilient exporters, it reinforces the importance of continued investment and collaboration in the region.”
Michaela Long, PTI Australia’s Communication and Investment Manager, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of recognising the human stories behind the data.
“This decade of research not only underscores the challenges Pacific exporters face, but also amplifies their remarkable resilience and ingenuity. It’s a testament to the strength of our region’s businesses and communities. At PTI Australia, we remain deeply committed to supporting these exporters and creating pathways for long-term growth and prosperity in the Blue Pacific.”
PTI thanks Dr Houghton for his commendable work on the longitudinal analysis, and all businesses, partners and stakeholders who make the Export Survey such a success. Please access the Pacific Export Survey Longitudinal Report here.
