Amex Resource Limited, a Lautoka-based iron sand exporter originating from Fiji’s Western region, has upped its game significantly. The company is in the process of a three-day loading exercise of its second shipment of iron sand for this year, which is headed to China. The shipment is approximately 50,000 tonnes in weight. Alivereti Tuidravuni, the company’s general manager, has attributed this year’s improved outcomes to consistent optimization of both equipment and management.
The international exchange has considerably improved the professional abilities of the local Fijian staff. Chinese experts, with in-depth knowledge and understanding of operating dredging vessels, have assisted in bolstering professional skills. The knowledge transfer has been consistent despite language barriers, providing feasible solutions for equipment faults.
In a bid to optimize, there are positions open for certain technical roles within the company. Amex currently operates with a workforce of about 100.
Even with the successful production of the second batch of iron sand, Australian investors in the company desire increased production rates. Consequently, the board has ramped up investments in capital and technology and initiated a three-phase technological upgrade plan. The first phase of this upgrade will see the installation of an advanced hydraulic cyclone device to enhance productivity. The preliminary testing for this equipment is scheduled for the next two months.
Meanwhile, Australian shareholders have injected $1.1 million to acquire a second dredging ship from China, ensuring continuous production. Technological upgrades are expected to substantially increase shipment frequency. Despite the current performance not meeting investor expectations, financial support for the company has not wavered.
According to Mr. Tuidravuni, the production tasks for the second half of the year are even more demanding, requiring an understanding of its urgency. New equipment and spare parts, primarily from China and New Zealand, have been arriving over the past months with an increase in the workforce to install and commission the new equipment. The new technological upgrades require experienced technical specialists to handle complex equipment operations.