Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka today officially launched a $50 million water bottling plant at Naseyani in Ra, describing the project as a major boost to rural development and Fiji’s export economy. The plant, led by the Unit Trust of Fiji and to be operated under Fiji Wai PTE Limited, is being positioned as one of the country’s most advanced bottling facilities and a model of development that links private investment with landowner partnerships.
Once complete, the Naseyani facility will have the capacity to produce 36,000 bottles per hour aimed at high-value export markets. Construction is set to intensify over the next nine months, with commissioning scheduled for January next year. Project organisers say the phased build will incorporate modern bottling lines and packaging systems designed for export standards, although specific export destinations have not been disclosed.
At the launch Mr Rabuka framed the investment as “more than just an industrial expansion—it is an investment in our people, our land, and our future.” He stressed the project represents a new development model in which the Unit Trust of Fiji and investors work closely with landowning units to ensure benefits flow back to local communities. “As we grow globally, the benefits must remain with our communities,” he said, underlining the government’s emphasis on inclusive and locally anchored projects.
Fiji Wai PTE Limited chair Lavinia Kaumaitotoya said the venture is expected to deliver developments on the ground, financial empowerment for landowners, and employment opportunities for youth in Ra and surrounding areas. “This stands as a testament to what can be achieved when government, landowners and technical experts unite,” she said, adding that the initiative will provide both short-term construction jobs and longer-term roles in plant operations, logistics and export services.
The Naseyani plant comes amid broader government efforts to add value to primary products and attract green and export-oriented investment. Policymakers have recently emphasised sustainable infrastructure and finance frameworks to mobilise private capital for climate-resilient development, a context project backers say will help position the facility for regional demand. Prime Minister Rabuka also noted the launch reflects growing international attention on Fiji, saying regional leaders have been reaching out as the country strengthens its leadership role in the Pacific.
Next steps for the project include ramping up site works, finalising equipment import and installation schedules, and completing agreements with landowning units and local stakeholders. Organisers say community consultation and benefit-sharing arrangements are central to the plant’s rollout. With commissioning set for next January, the plant is expected to start contributing to export revenues and local employment within the coming year, marking a tangible development outcome for Naseyani and the Ra province.
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