Fiji Rugby Union

The previous arrangement expired after the Rio Games, with players only receiving minimal match payments and a daily allowance since the start of the new World Series in December.

Reports in Australia have linked gold medal winning trio Masivesi Dakuwaqa, Jerry Tuwai and Jasa Veremalua with a switch to rugby league.

Head coach Gareth Baber said they're doing everything they can to keep their best players in Fiji.

Osea Kolinisau will lead the Olympic and World Series champions' squad, which includes fellow gold medallists Jasa Veremalua and Samisoni Viriviri.

Fiji Rugby Union CEO John O'Connor said even with some players overseas there is still a huge pool of talent available in Fiji.

"I am happy that we have been able to identify these players and bring them into camp to prepare them for the Oceania 7s," he said.

"They have shown a lot of progress in the two weeks of camp which proves their selection into the team."

He said rugby was a key national sport and united a nation.

Speaking at the opening of the FRU development workshop at the Outrigger on the Lagoon Fiji Monday,  Bainimarama said Fiji was blessed with a massive amount of local talent and resources.

He said provincial union leaders were the ones who would eventually take the Fijian brand of rugby to another level.