A delegation from Aitken Spence PLC, a leading conglomerate in Sri Lanka, explored potential agricultural business opportunities in Fiji through its subsidiary, Elpitiya Plantations. The four-day trip was facilitated by Investment Fiji, the Commercial Agriculture Taskforce, and various government ministries, including Agriculture and Waterways.
During their visit, the Aitken Spence team met with a wide array of stakeholders, including government officials, food processing companies, distributors, and local farmers. Dr. Rohan Fernando, a Board Director at Aitken Spence PLC, emphasized that these engagements provided valuable insights and fostered discussions aimed at identifying and developing agricultural opportunities in the region.
Dr. Fernando noted that Fiji offers numerous prospects for commercial farming, particularly in crops like papaya, pineapples, dragon fruits, berries, coffee, tea, mangoes, cinnamon, lime, and passion fruit. He outlined a comprehensive approach that includes innovative farming methods and advanced processing techniques, focusing on both local consumption and export markets.
Site visits and meetings with local enterprises, including Nature’s Way Cooperative and Jack’s Mango Farm, highlighted potential for mango and strawberry cultivation. Discussions with Ranadi Plantation and Bula Coffee also indicated possibilities for partnerships in plantation agriculture and coffee production.
Aitken Spence plans to introduce advanced agricultural technologies and explore renewable energy solutions, which are expected to enhance productivity and sustainability in Fiji’s agricultural sector. Kamal Chetty, Chief Executive of Investment Fiji, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating it aligns with the vision for sustainable economic growth in the country.
Investment Fiji’s involvement was crucial in connecting Aitken Spence with local partners and providing insights into the investment landscape and regulatory framework in Fiji. The company is now preparing for follow-up visits to conduct a more in-depth analysis, with hopes that its investment will decrease Fiji’s dependence on imported agricultural goods while creating new export opportunities.