A team from Aitken Spence PLC, a major conglomerate in Sri Lanka, explored potential business opportunities in the agricultural sector during a recent visit to Fiji through its subsidiary, Elpitiya Plantations.
The four-day trip was facilitated by Investment Fiji, along with the Commercial Agriculture Taskforce, the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises and Communications, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways.
During their visit, the Aitken Spence delegation interacted with various stakeholders, including government ministries, food processing facilities, distributors, and local farmers.
Dr. Rohan Fernando, a Board Director at Aitken Spence PLC, remarked that these interactions provided essential insights and encouraged productive discussions aimed at uncovering viable agricultural opportunities in Fiji.
“Fiji offers numerous prospects for commercial farming, particularly in crops such as papaya, pineapples, dragon fruits, berries, coffee, tea, mangoes, cinnamon, lime, and passion fruit. Our method is holistic, covering everything from innovative farming methods to advanced processing techniques, with a strategic emphasis on both local markets and exports,” he explained.
The visit involved constructive site inspections and meetings with various local stakeholders. Significant discussions included collaborations with Nature’s Way Cooperative and Jack’s Mango Farm, focusing on the potential for mango and strawberry cultivation.
Furthermore, talks with Ranadi Plantation and Bula Coffee created opportunities for future collaborations in plantation agriculture and coffee production.
Aitken Spence is dedicated to introducing advanced agricultural technologies and exploring renewable energy solutions, which are expected to significantly boost Fiji’s agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Kamal Chetty, Chief Executive of Investment Fiji, stated, “The beneficial engagement with Aitken Spence aligns perfectly with our vision for sustainable economic growth. We are optimistic about the advantages this partnership will bring to Fiji’s agricultural sector and the wider economy.”
Investment Fiji played a crucial role in this visit by providing insights into Fiji’s investment landscape, connecting Aitken Spence with local partners, and offering guidance on regulatory and economic matters.
Aitken Spence is now preparing for further visits to conduct a more in-depth analysis. The expected investment in Fiji is anticipated to decrease the country’s dependence on imported agricultural products while also opening new markets for exports.