Connectivity can create islands of opportunity

In 2013 Mauritius saw its online industries contribute seven per cent of GDP and hire 18,000 employees. Pacific Island governments can replicate that success, writes Natasha Beschorner. Pacific Island countries are known for their remoteness, a diverse group of nations with picturesque beaches and friendly cultures, making them popular among holidaymakers. But, while this remoteness can be an advantage for the tourism industry, it can also be perceived as an obstacle for many investors and companies working across major international markets.

Today, though, global connectivity through broadband Internet by submarine cables and satellite services means these once isolated islands offer unique opportunities to the growing global outsourcing industry. In 2014, Fiji received the European Outsourcing Association’s Offshoring Destination of the Year Award, acknowledging the island state’s successful service to the United Kingdom and other European outsourcing markets.

Two companies – Mindpearl and ANZ Pacific Operations – have already set up offshore operations in Fiji, with offices in the Kalabu Tax Free Zone operated and administered by the Fiji Trade and Investment Bureau (Investment Fiji). A new World Bank report offers guidance for Pacific Island governments and businesses to mimic the outsourcing success of Mauritius, the Indian Ocean island nation that saw its online and offshore service industries contribute almost seven per cent of GDP and hire 18,000 direct employees in 2013.

Source: http://www.policyforum.net/connectivity-can-create-islands-of-opportunity/