For the past decade, the Pacific Islands Export Survey, conducted biennially by Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) with support from the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) and the Australian Government, has provided a crucial window into the export landscape of the Blue Pacific. This landmark survey offers data-driven insights into the activities, challenges, and opportunities for exporters across the region.
Spanning a wide range of industries—including agriculture, tourism, retail, and wholesale—the survey captures the perspectives of businesses navigating the complexities of exporting products, goods, and services both within the region and internationally. Over the years, it has become an indispensable tool for policymakers and business leaders, helping shape strategies to foster sustainable growth and overcome barriers.
Key findings from 2014–2024
The survey results from the past decade reveal several key themes, highlighting both resilience and persistent challenges:
1. Access to Finance
For many businesses, securing capital has been a recurring hurdle. Smaller enterprises, in particular, struggle with accessing banking services to support export activities. However, recent years have seen growth in government-backed export grants and increased international investor interest, offering hope for future financial support.
2. Supply Chain and Logistics Challenges
The Pacific’s geographic isolation presents unique logistical challenges. High shipping costs, inconsistent transport routes, and supply chain disruptions have been long-standing issues, further exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing these challenges is critical for businesses aiming to access international markets efficiently.
3. Labour Shortages
A significant issue across the region is the shortage of skilled labour. Seasonal worker programs that send Pacific Islanders to Australia and New Zealand have created gaps in local workforces, leaving businesses struggling to fill roles and manage additional training costs.
4. The Rise of Ecommerce
Despite infrastructural challenges, ecommerce has seen notable growth in the region, particularly after the pandemic. However, limited access to high-speed internet, payment systems, and digital platforms remains a barrier to realising the full potential of online trade.
5. Extreme Weather Events
The increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones, droughts, and rising sea levels have had a profound impact on businesses in the region. Damage to infrastructure, loss of crops, and higher insurance premiums are just some of the challenges that exporters face due to climate change.
6. Market Access and Trade Agreements
While businesses continue to face difficulties penetrating international markets due to tariffs and complex regulations, there has been progress. Improved trade agreements and market research initiatives are opening up new opportunities in markets like China and North America.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Despite these challenges, one of the most striking findings is the resilience and adaptability of Pacific businesses. Over the past decade, exporters have shown remarkable tenacity in navigating crises, from extreme weather events to the global pandemic. This resilience has been bolstered by initiatives from PTI, which provides market intelligence, capacity-building programs, and critical support to businesses in the region.
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.
Looking ahead
While progress has been made, there is still work to be done to address persistent challenges such as labour shortages, supply chain inefficiencies, and access to finance. Enhancing digital infrastructure, building local talent, and developing disaster-resilient business models will be critical for the next decade of growth in the Blue Pacific.
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.
As the Blue Pacific looks to the future, the determination and ingenuity of its businesses will remain a powerful driver of economic growth, sustainable development, and prosperity.
This analysis celebrates the incredible resilience of Pacific exporters while recognising the need for continued collaboration to overcome systemic challenges. PTI’s dedication to empowering businesses and fostering sustainable economic growth remains pivotal to the region’s success in the years to come.
Associate Professor Luke Houghton is a member of the Griffith Asia Institute.
Marking the 10-year anniversary, the longitudinal case study documents the pivotal role of PTI Australia in fostering export growth and economic development in the Pacific region. The findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this paper are those of the author(s) and should not be attributed to Griffith University or affiliated organisations.
Click here to read the full report “Driving economic resilience: Pacific Trade Investment’s decade of progress” or download the PDF.
