Turning Social Media into a Source of Income
We have the talent. We have the creativity. We have the stories that people across the globe would love to hear. What we don’t have are the systems in place to help Fijians monetize their content at the same level as creators in other countries. If we want to empower communities through technology, we need to start by giving Fijians access to the digital economy.
Unlocking TikTok, YouTube & Social Media Monetization for Fijians
Right now, Fijians face several challenges when it comes to earning from social media:
🔹 Fiji is not eligible for TikTok's Creator Fund or Creativity Program. This means no matter how viral your video goes, you don’t get paid.
🔹 YouTube pays creators who hit 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, but Fijians still face issues with payout systems, tax registration, and linking bank accounts.
🔹 Meta (which owns Facebook and Instagram) allows creators in many countries to earn from their content through ad revenue, bonuses, and subscriptions. But, again, Fiji is not on the list of eligible countries.
🔹 In countries like the US and Australia, TikTok Shop allows users to sell products directly through the app. Imagine if Fijian artisans, farmers, or businesses could do the same! If we are serious about making the digital economy work for our people, these restrictions need to change.
What Can the Fiji Government Do?
To enable Fijians to earn from TikTok, YouTube, and other platforms, the government needs to take a proactive role in lobbying for digital inclusion.
✅ The government, through the Ministry of Communications and Trade, should engage directly with companies like TikTok, YouTube, and Meta to push for Fiji to be added to their list of eligible countries.
✅ Platforms like TikTok and YouTube require creators to link bank accounts or PayPal for payouts. Fiji needs to improve its PayPal integration with local banks so creators can receive their earnings without high fees and delays.
✅ Fiji can invest in digital content training programs that teach people how to grow and monetize their social media presence.
✅ Fiji’s private sector needs to embrace social media marketing and start collaborating with local creators.
✅ A clear tax framework for digital entrepreneurs would make it easier for creators to operate within the law.
The Opportunity: Why This Matters for Fiji
The global creator economy is worth over $100 billion, and it’s growing fast. Countries that embrace digital entrepreneurship are seeing:
💡 More Job Opportunities – Social media allows people to make money without needing traditional jobs. Anyone with a phone and internet can start earning.
💡 More Global Exposure for Local Businesses – Fijian-made products, crafts, and tourism experiences could be marketed directly to millions of international viewers.
💡 More Money Circulating in the Economy – If Fijians could earn directly from platforms like TikTok and YouTube, it would bring millions of dollars into our economy without relying on tourism alone.
💡 A More Digitally Skilled Workforce – By investing in digital entrepreneurship, we prepare Fijians for the future of work, where online jobs and remote work will dominate.
Final Thoughts
Fiji has everything it takes to become a leader in the Pacific’s digital economy. But if we don’t act now, we risk being left behind. The government must push for Fiji’s inclusion in global monetization programs, support digital entrepreneurs, and make it easier for people to earn online. We’ve received technical assistance for years—now it’s time to see real impact. The best way to empower communities through technology is to let them earn from it.
What do you think? Should Fiji push for TikTok and YouTube monetization? Let’s start the conversation. 💬👇
