Nadi, Fiji: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office in Fiji participated in the 2024 Top Executive Conference (TOPEX), last week in Nadi.  

This year's theme: ‘Collaborative Action for Sustainable Growth: Delivering on Our 2030 Commitment’, resonated strongly with UNDP's mission of fostering inclusive and sustainable development in partnership with the private sector.

The TOPEX event brought together influential business leaders, policymakers, and development stakeholders under one roof to discuss sustainable growth strategies for Fiji's private sector. UNDP's participation underscored the importance of the private sector's role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and creating meaningful impact through partnerships, innovation, and collaborative action.

During the event, UNDP launched the Private Sector Pledge for Goals Initiative, designed to mobilise private sector support for the SDGs. This initiative offers businesses a unique opportunity to pledge resources, expertise, and financial contributions towards specific goals or ongoing UNDP projects that support sustainable private sector development in Fiji and the region.

The financing gap has now evolved into the great financial divide, with the shortfall needing to be covered to realise the SDGs now sitting at approximate US$4.2 trillion.

UNDP also hosted a dedicated speaking session that focused on the importance of SDG and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards for businesses. The session emphasised the critical role of the private sector in contributing to sustainable development, not only as drivers of economic growth but also as key players in addressing social and environmental challenges.  

In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between UNDP and the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF). The MOU formalises an ongoing partnership aimed at supporting private sector initiatives that align with the SDGs, promoting sustainable business practices, and fostering economic resilience. The signing ceremony marked an important milestone in UNDP and FCEF's collaboration, setting the stage for impactful projects that will drive Fiji's development agenda forward.

UNDP Pacific Resident Representative, Munkhtuya Altangerel, said:

“Engaging with the private sector is crucial should we achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Businesses have the capacity to innovate, invest, and create solutions that can address some of our most pressing challenges, and the private sector can be a catalyst for positive change, driving both economic growth and social progress.”

For more information on the Private Sector Pledge for Goals Initiative or to learn more about our work with the private sector, please contact:

Sagufta Janif 
Sagufta.salma.janif@undp.org