LocationsEmpowering Women Enterprises to Lead Circular Economy Transitions in the MICE and Tourism Sectors
October 31, 2025
Suva, Fiji – 14 women entrepreneurs from across Fiji have redefined what sustainable business looks like through the Supplier Development Programme (SDP), an initiative that equips small businesses to tap into the growing meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry while reducing waste and promoting circular economy practices.
Over six weeks, participants received targeted support in business and trade training, market linkages, financial inclusion and digital access. The programme focused on helping micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) gain the skills and knowledge to integrate sustainable products and services into supply chains for tourism and events.
The programme culminated on Friday evening with a trade showcase, where participants presented locally made, sustainably sourced products ranging from catering and event supplies to artisan crafts. The showcase celebrated innovation and resilience, while connecting businesses directly with buyers and partners in the MICE sector.
Supported by the Government of Australia and delivered through a partnership between the UN Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office and the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF), the SDP is the first of its kind in the region. It aims to shift procurement practices in tourism and events toward locally made, environmentally responsible products and services.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Sashi Kiran.
Hon. Sashi Kiran, Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, provided remarks at the event and said:
“When a woman starts a small business, she is not just earning an income, she is investing in her children’s education, strengthening food security, and contributing to community wellbeing. This is why women’s economic empowerment is also social protection, it gives families stability, dignity, and choice.”
Counsellor with the Australian High Commission to Fiji, Mr. Andrew Shepherd.
Mr Andrew Shepherd, Counsellor with the Australian High Commission to Fiji said:
“The power of women-led initiatives from handcrafts to cooperatives to the agricultural enterprises, transforming communities and lifting families out of poverty.”
Vice President of the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation, Mr Jeetender Rai.
Mr Jeetender Rai, Vice President of the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation said:
“The showcase isn’t just trade display – it is a reflection of what happens when talents meet opportunity.”
UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative, Ms Munkhtuya Altangerel.
UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative, Ms Munkhtuya Altangerel said:
“The Supplier Development Programme is not just about reducing waste – it’s about creating economic opportunities while embedding circular economy principles into supply chains. For UNDP, this initiative reflects our deep commitment to inclusive growth, gender equality, and climate action. It shows that sustainable development is not only about policy or investment, but about people – and the ideas, energy, and creativity they bring.”
The SDP represents a significant step towards building resilient, environmentally conscious supply chains in the Pacific, and sets a precedent for future initiatives that combine sustainability with economic empowerment.
As the Supplier Development Programme unfolded, it was not only building business capacity but cultivated a movement of empowered women entrepreneurs who redefined what sustainable trade looks like in the Pacific.
For more information, please contact:
Ashna Kumar, Communications Associate | UNDP Pacific Office | (E) Ashna.kumar@undp.org
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