In a heartfelt commitment to its Pacific neighbours, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong assured Pacific Island nations that they will continue to enjoy tariff-free access to Australia’s markets — a critical gesture of support at a time when global aid is under strain.
During her address in Suva, Fiji, Wong spoke not just as a diplomat, but as a friend. She described Australia as “a partner the Pacific can count on,” offering reassurance as several Pacific nations grapple with economic uncertainty and new U.S. trade tariffs.
“For forty years, tariff-free access to Australia has supported jobs and livelihoods across the Pacific. Today, I give you my word — that will not change,” Wong told regional leaders at the Pacific Islands Forum headquarters.
Her speech came in the wake of the United States imposing steep tariffs — 32% on Fiji’s exports, which include bottled water, sugar, and fish. Vanuatu faced a 22% tariff hike, while tiny Nauru, home to just 11,000 people, was hit with a 30% rate. Fiji’s Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, had earlier voiced concern about these changes during a visit to Washington.
The Pacific, a region rich in culture but vulnerable to climate change and shifting geopolitical tides, now finds itself navigating growing external pressures. “From rising seas to shrinking aid budgets, these are shared challenges,” said Wong. “But Australia will not walk away.”
She reaffirmed Australia’s record $2.1 billion (A$) development aid package and shared that 75 cents of every Australian aid dollar is now focused on supporting the Pacific.
With China increasing its footprint in the region — particularly in policing and infrastructure — Wong’s message was clear: Australia’s support is grounded in partnership, not power plays.
Her Pacific tour continues with visits to Vanuatu and Tonga — underlining a pledge that’s more than policy: it’s personal.
