The Government and the Ministry of Industry and Trade are ready to work with the business community in New Zealand to reignite trade and investment between the two countries.

This is according to Ministry of Industry and Trade permanent secretary Shaheen Ali who made the comments during the Fiji New Zealand Business council forum in Suva yesterday.

Ali said the government has gone to great lengths to create a stable and conducive business environment that encourages growth and development.

Ali said since 2009 total investment in Fiji has reached the highest level which last year totaled to 28.2% of the GDP.

He stresses that Fiji firmly believes that in order for re-engagement to be meaningful, it should not just be willingness on the part of the Fijian government and industries, but the New Zealand government must also take significant and concrete steps to show their commitment towards mending relations.

He added that New Zealand and Fiji are natural trading partners and must work together to reach the full potential of their relationship.