Strengthening Global Partnerships to Unlock Trade Opportunities for the Pacific
Through stronger global partnerships, the Pacific’s small island states are unlocking new trade and investment opportunities.
Pacific nations are forging new trade ties as global partners strengthen cooperation. The International Trade Centre (ITC) is deepening partnerships across the Pacific, working closely with local small businesses and institutions to help them compete internationally. This commitment was highlighted at the first EU–Pacific Business Forum, held in Fiji.
EU–Pacific Business Forum 2025
In September 2025, more than 300 government leaders, business representatives, development partners and international financial institutions gathered in Nadi, Fiji, under the theme “Towards an investment partnership.”
The Forum aligned with the EU’s Global Gateway, which addresses global challenges ranging from climate change and health system improvements to strengthening global supply chains. It also supported the goals of the Pacific’s 2050 Blue Pacific Continent vision, which outlines long-term environmental and development priorities for the region.
Trade between the European Union and the Pacific reached €3.8 billion in 2024, representing a 50% increase over the past decade.
Focus Areas and Policy Dialogue
Over two days, interactive dialogues and sectoral sessions explored:
renewable energy and climate resilience,
digital connectivity, and
opportunities within the blue economy.
The European Union has reached an interim Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) providing preferential trade access for Pacific countries. A dedicated roundtable examined the EPA, while a high-level dialogue emphasized enhanced cooperation through trade and investment.
At the Forum, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to the region with nearly €300 million allocated to sustainable regional development.
New Connections to Grow Pacific Trade
For many companies, the Forum opened the door to new collaboration through dedicated business matchmaking sessions.
From Samoa, business consultancy KVA Consult Ltd. described the Forum as “a real eye-opener”:
“We connected with European companies and fellow Pacific businesses. Now it’s about how we can make MSMEs more competitive and ensure they can export products and services to the EU market.”
On digital trade, the Cook Islands–based finance and shopping app Smartie noted:
“We discussed shared challenges in e-commerce and met partners offering real solutions for better e-payment systems across the Pacific.”
For young entrepreneurs, momentum was immediate. EmeralDreams Group of Palau, a travel company, said:
“Just last night, I sent out three pitch decks to investors and already have meetings lined up.”
Exporters also highlighted opportunities for joint development. Tanna Coffee Development Company of Vanuatu shared:
“We’re connecting with fellow producers across the South Pacific to develop products for both Pacific and EU markets.”
Looking Ahead
The Forum marks an important step in strengthening Pacific trade connections and fostering new business partnerships. ITC will continue to support Pacific businesses in following up on leads, strengthening partnerships, and translating new connections into tangible economic impact.
Event context
Speakers from the public and private sectors discussed the impact of the Economic Partnership Agreement on sustainable development in the Pacific.
Date: 4–5 September 2025
Location: Fiji
Across two days, interactive dialogue and sectoral sessions addressed renewable energy and climate change, digital connectivity, the blue economy, and the impact of the EPA between the EU and the Pacific.