Mark Halabe is traveling to Brazil to explore specialized equipment that could enhance productivity in Fiji’s garment industry. This significant investment aims to provide crucial support to his company, Mark One Apparel, where he serves as managing director.
Halabe expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “I’ll grab anything at this point in time to help us keep competitive.” He previously noted that the export manufacturing sector had experienced a considerable decline in national minimum wages over the past three years, with wages in India being 30 percent lower than those in Fiji.
The artificial intelligence-driven manufacturing equipment he plans to examine in Brazil features a coded computer chip, similar to a robotic system. “Some very exciting projects to keep competitive; we have to have it up and running before the end of the year,” he highlighted, emphasizing the anticipated boost in production.
“Our sales are measured by minutes rather than garments; managing our minutes influences our profit or losses,” he explained. Halabe noted that reducing costs per minute has been challenging, as it involves minimizing non-productive tasks, such as transporting fabric, and maximizing the efficiency of workers at sewing machines. He believes that artificial intelligence will enhance productivity by eliminating processes that do not add value during manufacturing.
In a related perspective, another notable export manufacturer is pleased with the advancements at Mark One Apparel. Mike Towler, who operates Performance Flotation Development (Fiji) Ltd, the largest producer and exporter of lifejackets in the Southern Hemisphere, pointed out that high freight costs and inadequate port facilities pose significant challenges to the industry’s competitiveness.
Towler remarked, “None of this is easy, as it is very capital-hungry.” He stressed the necessity of addressing structural issues to prevent the manufacturing sector from declining. “We need a comprehensive national infrastructure plan that includes ports, along with essential services like water and sewage, and healthcare facilities.” He also called for engagement with development partners, including China, to access the financial support these major donors could offer.