Businesses place Fiji on global market

A wide range of businesses involved in the export sector will compete in the 2011 TFL Prime Minister\'s Exporter of the Year Award in Fiji. The theme for this year\'s award is \"Taking Fiji to the World\" . Investment Fiji chief executive Ravuni Uluilakeba told media on Monday that exporters who have contributed towards the economy will be awarded in 19 different categories. Uluilakeba says while scrutinizing the applications they looked at areas such as the number of people employed by the company and their contribution towards foreign reserves for Fiji. \"A healthy rivalry aspect in competition because every small or medium or large company - they are all vying and showing it. I would say rather than rivalry it is a healthy competition to ensure that they win the trophy in the end.\" The 19th Prime Minister\'s Exporter of the Year Award will be held on November 26 at Sofitel, Denarau. This is something businesses look forward to as it is a prominent event that recognizes and honors exporters who have achieved sustainable export growth through innovation and commitment placing Fiji on the world map for countries that fail to know anything about the island nation considering its tiny size. It recognizes Fijian businesses for excellence and achievement in exporting. The event rewards and profiles the \"best of the best\" businesses in exporting around the globe. From manufacturing to forestry, fishing to agribusiness, tourism and services, businesses across all industries, regardless of size of location are being acknowledged. Investment Fiji says given the importance of exports to the Fijian economy, the objectives of this event are to showcase Fiji\' s top exporters. Winners become role models for the businesses of Fiji demonstrating their drive to achieve success overseas and their significant contribution to the economy, encouraging other Fijian businesses to strive for success in world markets. Past winners have reported that the Prime Minister\'s Exporter of the Year Award has increased their credibility in overseas markets and generated significant media interest in their business. Winning an award distinguishes you as a market leader, boosting your company\'s reputation. The call for applications for the 2011 Prime Minister\'s Exporter of the Year Award will open shortly after the launch in July 2011. This year there are a total of 18 categories and the best of the best will be selected as winners; from which the ultimate exporting accolade will be bestowed at the TFL Prime Minister\'s Exporter of the Year Award. Investment Fiji is urging all exporters to enter this prestigious competition. Fijian exporters play a pivotal role in the prosperity and stability of Fiji\'s economy, with their perseverance and ingenuity creating jobs and new businesses which benefit all Fijians.