Tongan-born entrepreneur Lia Susau is leveraging Fiji Day to expand her artisan business.
Based in Delainavesi for 12 years, Lia runs Susau Investment, selling traditional Tongan kiekie, kafa (magimagi) and ngatu (tapa).
“I started selling my products from home and then took my business online for more reach,” she said. “Now I’m taking advantage of opportunities at events like Fiji Day, where I can set up a stall, sell more, get more customers, and make more profit.”
Lia imports raw materials directly from Tonga, supplied by her mother and sister, then completes the craftwork locally in Fiji. She expects the Fiji Day crowds will bring high foot traffic to her stall.
“I couldn’t be happier that my business is growing, and having a booth here while people are celebrating Fiji Day will surely attract more customers,” she added.
Her clientele includes both the Tongan diaspora and Fijians from Lau, who she notes are among her most loyal buyers. Since her stall launch, she has already met strong interest from visitors and government officials.
As part of the Fiji Day message, organisers are encouraging the public to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Fiji’s government has emphasised stronger regional economic ties. At the recent Tonga Business Mission 2025, Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister noted Tonga is Fiji’s largest Pacific market, with exports worth over FJ$161 million in 2024.
For entrepreneurs such as Lia, these cross-border trade efforts and festival platforms may be critical to expanding reach and income in the Pacific market.
