Multinational companies, including Fiji Water and Aitken Spence from Sri Lanka, have shown a keen interest in Fiji’s commercial agriculture sector, as highlighted by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during the groundbreaking ceremony for the New Valley Processors’ processing and cold chain facility in Naboutini, Sabeto. This initiative signifies the beginning of a new era of investor confidence in the country’s agriculture, according to Rabuka.
Rabuka noted that an investor from Papua New Guinea is also in discussions with the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) and BSP, further indicating a positive shift towards revitalizing the agriculture sector. He emphasized the government’s commitment to not only enhance infrastructure but also to partner with rural communities and the private sector, aiming to bolster Fiji’s agricultural output to feed regional markets.
In his address, Rabuka praised the New Valley team’s dedication to connecting farmers in remote areas to global markets, calling this inclusive development the future of farming in Fiji. The Prime Minister highlighted how such investments can transform the livelihoods of many families, allowing them to afford better education for their children and improved living conditions through enhanced agricultural practices.
Reiterating the government’s support for this initiative, Rabuka mentioned the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, and community stakeholders to ensure projects like New Valley not only succeed but serve as models for agricultural development in other parts of Fiji. He expressed optimism that with the right partnerships, Fiji can significantly strengthen its agriculture sector, which remains a critical component of the rural economy, providing food, income, and dignity for thousands of families.
Moreover, the New Valley Processors facility is set to support over 10,000 smallholder farmers, strengthening market access and productivity. Such initiatives are crucial for enhancing economic resilience and sustainability within Fiji’s agricultural landscape.
Overall, these developments point towards a hopeful and promising future for Fiji’s agriculture sector, with the potential to significantly uplift rural communities and contribute positively to the overall economy.
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