Suva, Fiji – 15 April 2025 – The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) jointly launched the Pacific Digital Economy Report 2024 at the Forum Secretariat in Suva.
The hybrid event drew over 90 participants, including representatives from governments, development agencies, the private sector, and civil society.
Distinguished speakers included UNCTAD Deputy Secretary General Pedro Moreno (via recorded remarks), PIFS Deputy Secretary General Desna Solofa, UN Resident Coordinator Dirk Wagener, and EU Ambassador to the Pacific Barbara Plinkert.
A panel discussion followed, exploring challenges and opportunities in digital entrepreneurship and transformation. The panel featured Aneth Kasebele (United Nations Capital Development Fund), Sailendra Prasad (Digital Financial Services), George Fong (TicketMax), and Krystelle Lavaki (Asia Foundation).
The report delivers on Measure 1.2.2 of the Pacific Regional E-commerce Strategy and Roadmap. It outlines both the opportunities and persistent challenges Pacific Small Island Developing States face in the digital economy. While improved infrastructure, like new submarine cables and mobile networks, has strengthened connectivity in some areas, high internet costs, limited rural access, and device affordability continue to exclude many.
The report underscores that connectivity alone is not enough. Digital transformation must also include support for entrepreneurs, better access to finance, stronger digital skills, and inclusive policies. Public-private partnerships and coordinated regional efforts are essential to close digital divides and build resilient economies.
It also highlights the untapped potential of digital trade and entrepreneurship, especially for micro and small businesses. Despite access to global markets, barriers like weak logistics systems, fragmented regulations, and limited financial support persist. The report calls for strengthened legal protections, interoperable digital payment systems, and investment in digital trade infrastructure, particularly in services like e-learning and business process outsourcing.
PIFS Deputy Secretary General Desna Solofa remarked, “The Pacific Digital Economy Report 2024 highlights the immense potential of digital transformation to drive economic growth and resilience across our region. By leveraging digital platforms, Pacific businesses and professionals can overcome geographical barriers, access global markets, and create new opportunities in their own countries and communities without having to migrate. However, to fully realise these benefits, we must address key challenges such as affordable connectivity, digital literacy, and regulatory harmonisation. This report serves as both a roadmap and a call to action, urging governments, businesses, and development partners to collaborate in shaping an inclusive and sustainable digital future for the Pacific”.
