2010-08-05 14:38

SUVA -- A large number of potential investors who turned up at the seminar organized by the Fiji Trade and Investment Bureau at the Shanghai Expo in China this week have vowed to visit Fiji.

Fiji's Minister for Trade Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum who is also in Shanghai for the expo said the positive thing was that several investors had registered their interest to come to Fiji and follow up on the opportunities offered in the island nation.

On Thursday, the Fiji booth was the focus of the Shanghai Expo as it had been designated "Fiji Day" where thousands of people paid a visit to enjoy the entertainment on offer.

The Fiji booth at the Shanghai Expo in China has left visitors amazed with what a small island nation has to offer to the world' s fastest growing economy.

Tourism Fiji's Chief Executive Officer Josefa Tuamoto said Fiji is regarded as a dream destination by Chinese visitors.

As a result there are talks of increasing flights between Fiji and Hong Kong .

Fiji's Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama was on Wednesday also briefed on customs clearance procedures and border security at the China Customs yard facility in Shanghai .

Bainimarama was accompanied by Khaiyum, FTIB Chairman Adrian Sofield, the Chinese ambassador to Fiji Hang Zhiqiang and several Chinese foreign affairs officials.

The Shanghai Customs yard facility uses thermal imaging to identify the contents of containers and any contraband that may contradict China's laws and regulations.

This visit has been described to the Fiji media as a significant expression of China's support to Fiji and their willingness to engage in developing the security facets of Fiji's borders.

The majority of China's seaports use the thermal NUCTECH imaging machines to enhance the security of their borders and China Customs expressed interest in providing the same equipment to Fiji.

China Customs currently has an ongoing project with the Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority (FIRCA).