Businesses are concerned that the diplomatic row between Fiji and New Zealand could jeopardise the annual $400 million trade between the two countries.
In a tit for tat move New Zealand and Fiji and have expelled the head of each other's diplomatic missions in Suva and Wellington. The moves came after Fiji ordered acting New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner Todd Cleaver and Australia's High Commissioner James Bartley to leave, claiming New Zealand and Australia were meddling in Fiji's domestic affairs.
Fiji has also previously sent home High Commissioner Michael Green and his successor, acting High Commissioner Caroline McDonald.New Zealand Pacific Business Council chairman Gilbert Ullrich says businesses planning to invest in Fiji might be deterred by the unsettled political situation.
"It's discouraging. I think New Zealand ought to try looking at the trade aspect of it and if we're not doing very well politically, we should get atrade commissioner positioned up there as soon as we can, because it could have an impact on our trade."
Mr Ullrich says New Zealand withdrew its trade commissioner from Suva last year.
