Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Vatimi Rayalu, recently commended New Valley Processors (Fiji) Pte Ltd for its strides in agri-processing and export, recognizing the company’s potential to reshape Fiji’s agricultural export framework. During a visit to the facility in Sabeto, Nadi, the Minister praised New Valley Processors for its commitment to value addition and innovative agricultural practices.
Minister Rayalu stated, “I must commend your company for taking that leap of faith and moving in a totally new direction.” He expressed optimism about the company’s growth prospects, supported by the government’s initiatives.
Originally founded in 2012 as a farmer cluster group focused on produce aggregation, New Valley Processors became a full-fledged exporter in 2023. The company aims to create local value and develop products that benefit smallholder farmers, particularly in remote areas like Ra and Navosa. CEO Navi Tuivuniwai highlighted how the ministry’s support has been crucial in transitioning to higher-value product exports. The company’s vision, encapsulated in the slogan “Markets Beyond Markets,” aims to connect these farmers with new economic opportunities.
New Valley Processors is investing in modern processing technologies to harness high-value compounds from local crops. This strategic direction not only promises better returns for farmers but also paves the way for smarter, more sustainable agricultural export practices.
The visit concluded with an inspection of the new processing facility under construction, which is anticipated to further strengthen support for over 10,000 smallholder farmers stretching from Sigatoka to Rakiraki.
The positive momentum surrounding New Valley Processors is mirrored in the broader agricultural landscape of Fiji, where the government is increasingly focused on enhancing infrastructure and supporting rural farmers. Initiatives like New Valley’s processing facility are seen as vital for providing greater market access and improving livelihoods, indicating a hopeful future for the agricultural sector and the communities it supports.
Overall, this narrative reflects a thriving agricultural initiative that not only focuses on economic growth but also on empowering local farmers, aligning well with other similar efforts in the sector aimed at revitalizing Fiji’s agricultural landscape.
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