section 1

Getting ready for export

This Exporter Guide is an initiative developed by Investment Fiji to help exporters and companies intending to export. This Guide is a practical resource for companies to help them develop and implement successful international growth strategies.

There are tips to assist exporters and information regarding export opportunities under the various trade agreements and requirements of Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) requirements.
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Basically, the export of goods from Fiji is the shipment of goods to a place outside of the country. One can freely export anything that is not subjected to an export prohibition or restriction. A few goods are prohibited from exportation altogether, e.g. narcotic drugs.
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Other goods are subject to an export restriction, usually for environmental, cultural, public protection or security reasons.Restricted goods may only be exported with a licence issued by the appropriate Government Department.
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The Guide outlines the key processes involved in exporting and the various Agencies involved in providing export permits, licences, certifications of products and approvals. Exporting involves many and sometimes complex procedures, which must be carried out correctly and completely. If the appropriate processes are not followed, it can cost businesses lots of money

This Guide provides direction especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to guide and assist them in planning to export. It provides information on approval Agencies and the processes of approval for the various products, the requirements on applying for export licences, forms to complete, incentives and tax concessions, fees, and contact details. It also provides information on export insurance, financing, freight forwarders and other support Agencies that can assist exporters.
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Export of services is a growing sector in Fiji especially in information, communication, and technology (ICT). These services include call centers, mail management, data / voucher processing, tele-hosting / warehousing, software development and disaster recovery management systems. There are attractive incentives offered in this sector to boost growth and innovation.
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It is important to ensure that once the company is “export ready”,the goods that are going to be exported are of internationally acceptable standards. The quality and packaging of goods have important standards to adhere to, in order to acquire and sustain an export market or client.

In preparing for export, it’s important for companies, especially SMEs, to take some time in researching the market and the market requirements. Outlined are some tips that can assist a company.

PREPARE THE WAY

1. Research your market

• Find out if a demand exists for your product or service in your target market.
• Analyze your competition. How do you compare?
• Draw up a detailed list of the things you need to consider when operating in this market, e.g. legal, financial and cultural differences.

2. Check if you’re ready

• Identify the benefits of this opportunity for your business.
• Review your business capabilities.
• Clarify those areas, if any, where extra advice, finance, and support would be useful.

MAKE YOUR PLAN

3. Be customs-savvy

• Contact your accountant, FRCS, and BAF.
• Talk to Investment Fiji, the Fiji Embassy in that market, Pacific Trade& Invest (PT&I) and other networks in your target market.
• Give yourself time to get it right.

4. Protect yourself

• Speak to your solicitor.
• Know your legal obligations when exporting.
• Consult with the Solicitor General’s Office Fiji on Intellectual Property Rights.

5. Write your export plan

• Set out how you plan to launch your product or service.
• Think capital, resources, logistics, distribution and customer support.
• Do you have what you need to succeed?

CLOSE THE DEAL

6. Sort your finances

• Talk to your bank, accountant and insurance company.
• Review the extra finance you may need to fund your move overseas.
• Always think long-term.

7. Take a fresh look at your product / service and marketing

• As required, adapt your product/service and marketing to your new market.
• Look at what others are doing.
• Recognise what works and use it as a guide.

8. Secure the best sales and transport routes for you

• Decide if you want to sell direct, online or through an agent or distributor.
• Plan your routes and choose the most efficient transport method.
• Ensure that you or your importer insure your goods.

DO BUSINESS AND GROW

9. Get paid on time

• Keep a close eye on your cash flow.
• Make sure you have the necessary credit in place to underwrite your investments and sales.
• Always protect your business with insurance.

 10. Support your customers

• Check in with customers, export agents, banks and other partners regularly.
• Provide the same standard of service to your overseas customers as you do in Fiji.
• Keep an eye on what is happening in your market economically, politically and socially that might impact your business.