A feasibility report detailing revitalization plans for Fiji’s shipbuilding industry was presented to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka by Arup Australia, in collaboration with the Australian High Commission and the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP). This study is a crucial step in Fiji’s aim to emerge as a leader in the global maritime sector.
Prime Minister Rabuka emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that it will facilitate the establishment of a world-class shipbuilding facility that positions Fiji as a central hub for maritime engineering, ship construction, and repair services in the Pacific. The facility will be built on the specific site designated during the announcement and will be managed by Oceania Shipbuilding and Engineering Limited, a government-owned entity created to oversee operations.
Highlighting that the construction will take place in phases, Rabuka stated that the initial development will start on the designated site, with future expansions planned for adjacent areas. This venture is expected not just to revive Fiji’s shipbuilding capabilities but also to create new job opportunities and train a skilled workforce, with the support of the Australian government.
The report marks the first phase of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Port Infrastructure and Services, signed last year, which signifies a strong partnership to advance Fiji’s maritime goals. As Prime Minister Rabuka remarked, the government is dedicated to ensuring Fiji’s competitiveness in both regional and global markets.
This initiative follows on from previous reports and announcements that stress Fiji’s potential in the maritime sector. The collaboration with Australia aims to enhance Fiji’s shipbuilding industry, signifying a commitment to not only develop infrastructure but also strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
The promising future of Fiji’s shipbuilding industry looks set to foster significant economic growth, driven by increased employment and the development of specialized skills within the workforce. The international collaboration for revitalization in this sector offers hope for a flourishing maritime economy in the Pacific region.
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