Global outsourcers looking to Pacific Featured
21 December 2015. Global call centre providers are starting to look at the Pacific as an alternative to countries like India and the Philippines for outsourcing.
A World Bank study suggests the region has the potential to create thousands of jobs in the offshoring, online outsourcing and other IT-related industries.
Optimistic scenarios in the report found that as many as 27,000 jobs could be created across Fiji, Samoa and Tonga.
Fiji already has operations in place: Mindpearl, a global contact centre opened in Suva in 2009.
The Commercial Director of Asia Pacific, Mark Mahoney, says internet speed is one of the advantages the Pacific offers.
"We've got customers today or clients today in Suva that were formerly in the Philippines, and they certainly speak of better connectivity in Suva, more reliable internet and clearer voice. Technology wise I think due to the Southern Cross Cable we've had really good feedback on the technology solution as well as really glowing endorsement on the capability of the people."
Mark Mahoney says they were also attracted to Fiji because of the high level of English proficiency among the local population.
Loop
2 comments
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WELL SAID VIKA...It is true that 27,000 jobs viability for Tonga, Fiji, and Samoa is good news. But certainly fiber optics does not guarantee success in "outsource" jobs for Tonga. Fiber optics speeds up the rate of data transfers and signal clarity (Internet and phone lines constant strengths), but it does not make the Internet cheaper nor it can be affordable.
These jobs are customer service-oriented in "call-centers." Tongan workers will communicating with large companies' customers far away in large Western countries. Basic knowledge of English is not enough for this type of work, in which they will be selling or do public relations work for their customers. Their attitude towards their customers, and proficient knowledge of their employers' corporate cultures will be the key factor. -
Fiji is so lucky and surely utilise fibre optic.
Communication Industry and Seabed Mining is the avenue that Tonga should build its economy with. Agriculture and Tourism are less helping for now due to global economic crisis.
However, iIt is your dearly responsibility Pohiva Government to educate your people now for those before its too late. Communication is mastered by Hon. Sovaleni and you have been trained and facilitated by different regional/international meeting. Your turn now to implement what you have learnt and make a difference at your beloved island Tonga. We have the source which is you and you have the power and authority, and you better act now for the future of your children and Tonga. We already have the fibre option on hand AND WHAT ARE DOING WITH IT? NOTHING .... unless you need a new Understandable Cabinet to help you, then please do so.