Google’s investment of $566 million is projected to create over 3,600 jobs in Fiji by 2030, significantly contributing to the nation’s GDP and boosting its digital infrastructure. Prime Minister Rabuka highlighted the importance of this investment for skill development and economic progress, while Google’s Brian Quigley discussed plans for multiple submarine cables enhancing connectivity across the Pacific.
In a significant development for Fiji’s economy, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced that Google’s recent $566 million investment in the nation is anticipated to generate over 3,600 job opportunities by the year 2030. During the groundbreaking ceremony for the Google ICT Facility in Natadola, Mr. Rabuka emphasized that this investment would not only provide employment but will also enhance the skill set of the local workforce, ensuring a positive impact on Fiji’s future. Moreover, he highlighted that this investment is projected to contribute $250 million (USD) to Fiji’s GDP by 2030, reflecting the project’s vital influence particularly on the business process outsourcing (BPO) and knowledge process outsourcing (KPO) sectors.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of improving digital connectivity and resilience to support the burgeoning BPO and KPO sectors in Fiji. Brian Quigley, Vice President of Google’s network infrastructure and Chairman of the Pacific Connect Initiative, revealed plans for four new submarine cables, which will significantly enhance Fiji’s digital infrastructure. One of the crucial cables will stretch from Natadola to Los Angeles, while another will connect Natadola to Valparaiso, Chile, marking a historic first link from South America to the Indo-Pacific region. In addition, connections to Australia and Japan via Guam and the Mariannas will be established. Mr. Quigley confirmed that this infrastructure is part of the Pacific Connect Initiative, aiming to position Fiji as a digital hub for 18 countries and islands across the Pacific.
This announcement comes at a time when digital infrastructure is becoming increasingly critical for economic growth and development, particularly in developing regions. The investment and subsequent jobs created by Google will boost local economies, enhance skills, and foster innovation. The establishment of submarine cable networks is vital as it connects remote regions to global digital economies, providing essential services and improving overall connectivity. Fiji’s strategic location within the Pacific is beneficial for facilitating expanded digital infrastructure, which will serve not only its population but also neighboring islands and countries in the region.
In conclusion, Google’s investment signifies a transformative opportunity for the Fijian economy through the creation of thousands of jobs and the enhancement of digital infrastructure. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on skill development and economic contribution underscores the project’s potential benefits. As Fiji prepares to become a digital hub, the planned submarine cables will facilitate greater connectivity, setting the stage for sustained economic growth and development across the Pacific.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
