The Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage, Arts and Public Enterprises, Charan Jeath Singh, recently held a productive meeting with the Board of Directors of Fiji Coconut Millers Pte Limited (FCML). The discussion centered on the government’s aspirations for the company to enhance its commercial performance and cultivate long-term profitability.
Minister Singh acknowledged FCML’s recent strides, including its successful expansion into value-added products like scented oils and soaps. He praised the company’s efforts in engaging local communities to support coconut farmers across regions such as Macuata, Bua, Cakaudrove, Lau, and Lomaiviti. Additionally, Singh noted the importance of establishing robust relationships with customers, suppliers, and stakeholders to further increase farmer participation in the coconut industry.
Despite these commendable achievements, the Minister stressed the necessity for sustainability and financial discipline to act as the guiding principles of the company’s operations. He clarified that government investments aim not only to maintain the operational status of FCML but also to propel growth, innovation, and a more significant contribution to the nation’s economy as a profit-oriented entity.
To foster future success, Singh urged FCML to continue diversifying its product offerings through enhanced value addition, improve its operational efficiency, and explore new markets while adhering to stronger commercial practices. He particularly emphasized the importance of bolstering the utilization of local by-products to support a circular economy, modernizing digital systems in both farming and milling processes, developing pricing mechanisms that respond to crises, and investigating opportunities in export markets.
The government’s proactive approach, coupled with FCML’s dedication to innovation and community involvement, positions the coconut industry for a promising future, benefiting both local farmers and the economy as a whole.
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