The Fijian Government is making strides to rejuvenate its shipbuilding industry, marked by the submission of a pivotal feasibility study report to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka last Saturday in Lautoka. The report, prepared by Arup Australia with collaboration from the Australian High Commission and the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), aims to restore Fiji’s stature in the global maritime sector.
During his speech, Prime Minister Rabuka reaffirmed the government’s dedication to establishing a top-tier shipbuilding facility, which is intended to make Fiji a significant hub for maritime engineering, ship construction, and repair services throughout the Pacific region. The initiative will be executed in phases, beginning with the development of the initial site and potentially expanding to adjacent locations, including the Public Works Department site.
The management of this new facility will be entrusted to Oceania Shipbuilding and Engineering Pte Limited, a government body tasked with overseeing operations and ensuring the project’s success. The Australian government has pledged up to $1.7 million for the feasibility study and site preparation requirements, highlighting the strategic partnership between Fiji and Australia aimed at enhancing maritime capabilities.
This feasibility study incorporates contributions from various stakeholders, including private sector participants, local universities, and international industry specialists, to address market assessments and regional necessities. Notably, the initiative is projected to create significant employment opportunities, estimating a workforce of 100 to 120 individuals during peak operational periods. Additionally, dialogues are in progress with the Ministry of Education to provide vocational training, which will be crucial in cultivating a skilled workforce.
Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald characterized this initiative as a transformative endeavor, emphasizing that it extends beyond just infrastructure improvements – it aims to enhance skills development and economic opportunities within Fiji’s maritime sector. This initiative also aligns with prior agreements established under a Memorandum of Understanding on Port Infrastructure and Services signed the previous year.
The revitalization of Fiji’s shipbuilding sector represents a hopeful opportunity for economic advancement, promising job creation and the development of a skilled workforce for the future. With robust support from international allies and a strong commitment from the Fijian government, the prospects for Fiji’s maritime industry appear bright, paving the way for significant transformation and success in the forthcoming years.
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