ANZ has entered into a partnership with the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) to support capital works projects at Fiji Airports. This collaboration is aimed at boosting Fiji's economic recovery by enhancing its critical infrastructure.
ANZ CEO Shayne Elliott expressed satisfaction in working alongside the Australian Government through AIFFP, emphasizing ANZ's role in connecting customers with trade and investment opportunities across the region. "Investing in infrastructure that puts Fiji in a position to quickly scale up capacity once international travel resumes is critical to driving future growth," Elliott stated. He added that the partnership leverages ANZ’s global banking expertise and local industry insights.
The financing agreement will enable upgrades to increase passenger capacity at Fiji Airports, including enhancements at Nadi and other outer island airports. These upgrades will focus on aprons, aircraft parking, and air traffic management systems.
Tessa Price, ANZ Regional Executive Pacific, highlighted ANZ's longstanding presence of 141 years in Fiji as evidence of its commitment to the Pacific region. She noted optimism about Fiji's long-term future, recalling its strong economic performance prior to COVID-19. "Once safe travel corridors can be established and with the return of international tourism, we believe activity can return to pre-COVID levels," Price remarked.
Fiji Airports is responsible for major airport services in Fiji, operating Nadi International Airport and managing Nausori International Airport along with 13 domestic airports on outer islands. It also provides traffic management services for airspace covering several countries including Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
This initiative marks the first loan guaranteed by AIFFP and funded in local currency.