Krishneel Deo’s recent investment of $600,000 has resulted in the launch of Delaivuna Farm Fresh, a new poultry mill based in Tovata, Makoi. The inauguration ceremony was held last Saturday and featured Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad, who emphasized the project’s importance for the enhancement of Fiji’s agricultural sector through vision and determination.
Professor Prasad lauded Deo and his family’s efforts in evolving Delaivuna Farm Fresh from a small poultry operation to a comprehensive enterprise that now includes a feed mill. He reiterated the government’s dedication to supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as crucial players in job creation and economic enhancement in the country.
Delaivuna Farm Fresh’s achievements have been noteworthy, having received accolades such as the Fiji Development Bank SME Awards for “Most Disaster Resilient Business” in 2018 and “Developing SME” in 2017. These awards reflect the company’s resilience and ability to thrive despite challenges.
During the inauguration, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the positive impact of this initiative, stating that it has generated around 100 jobs during the construction phase and currently provides 50 local jobs, with the potential for further employment growth. The poultry mill is set to empower the local economy and is a testament to the government’s strategy of reducing import dependency through investments in local agriculture.
To support such ventures, the government has introduced several initiatives including duty concessions on essential materials and equipment for feed production, alongside a financial assistance program offering a 4 percent interest rate subsidy on loans through the Fiji Development Bank. This support is aimed at reducing borrowing costs and encouraging growth in the agricultural sector.
Additionally, Delaivuna Farm Fresh has plans to diversify its operations with ventures into soya and corn farming, which will involve local farmers for ingredient sourcing, thereby reinforcing domestic agricultural value chains and opening up new prospects within the sector.
The establishment of Delaivuna Farm Fresh is not just a milestone for Krishneel Deo but also reflects a broader governmental effort towards agricultural self-sufficiency and economic diversification, fostering hope for a resilient and flourishing agricultural future in Fiji.
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