Mark Halabe is traveling to Brazil to explore a specific type of equipment that could enhance productivity in Fiji’s garment industry. The investment, amounting to a million dollars, is expected to provide incremental benefits for his company, Mark One Apparel, where he serves as managing director.
“I’m willing to pursue any opportunity to maintain our competitiveness,” he stated. Previously, Mr. Halabe commented on the challenges faced by the export manufacturing sector, noting a significant drop in national minimum wages over the last three years. He pointed out that wages for the same sector in India are approximately 30 percent lower than those in Fiji.
The manufacturing equipment he plans to examine in Brazil employs artificial intelligence and utilizes a coded computer chip, which he likens to robotic technology. “We have some exciting projects aimed at maintaining competitiveness; we need this equipment operational before the year’s end,” he added.
He emphasized the need for increased production, saying, “We operate by minutes, not garments; our ability to manage time affects our profitability.” The primary challenge has been reducing costs per minute by alleviating workers of non-productive tasks, such as transporting fabric, allowing them to focus on actual sewing work. He believes that artificial intelligence can significantly enhance productivity by eliminating unnecessary processes in the manufacturing phase.
In a related note, another prominent export manufacturer expressed support for the advancements at Mark One Apparel. Mike Towler, the owner and operator of Performance Flotation Development (Fiji) Ltd, which is the largest producer and exporter of lifejackets in the Southern Hemisphere, highlighted the challenges posed by high freight costs and inadequate port facilities that affect the industry’s competitive performance.
“Addressing these issues is not straightforward, as the sector requires substantial capital investment,” Mr. Towler remarked. “We must tackle the structural problems, or we risk diminishing our manufacturing capabilities.” He called for a comprehensive national infrastructure plan that encompasses ports, as well as essential services like water, sewage, and healthcare facilities. He emphasized the necessity of collaborating with international development partners, including China, to secure the funding needed for these crucial infrastructure improvements.