The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, recently visited Red Stag Timber, a privately owned timber company located in Rotorua, New Zealand.
Red Stag Timber stands as the largest timber company in the Southern Hemisphere, with an annual production exceeding 600,000m³ of Radiata Pine and Douglas-fir timber, generating an annual revenue of more than NZ $220 million. The company is recognized for its innovative practices and commitment to sustainable timber production.
During his visit, DPM Kamikamica focused on understanding the successful operations of one of New Zealand’s largest sawmills, which supplies high-quality timber to markets in New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific region. He commended Red Stag Timber for its advancements in innovation and supply chain development, emphasizing that collaboration with Fiji’s industries could be beneficial.
Kamikamica suggested that by adopting efficient modern technology and best practices from Red Stag, Fiji could develop effective strategies for its forestry sector, particularly for mahogany, which is a significant source of export earnings for the country.
He expressed gratitude to Red Stag Timber for the insights gained during the visit and looks forward to potential collaborations in the timber industry.