Fiji’s timber industry is poised for exciting growth by developing innovative products that will not only meet local demand for specialty joinery and furniture but also enhance export potentials. This insight was shared by Alitia Bainivalu, the Minister for Forests, during her statement regarding the advancements in the ministry’s research into utilizing senile coconut stems. This initiative is part of a five-year project focusing on transforming coconut and other underutilized forest resources into high-value engineered wood products for both local and international markets.
Bainivalu emphasized the crucial challenge ahead: encouraging the forest industry to embrace these innovations and invest in new technologies. The sector traditionally relies on processing standard timber species, which may make the integration of senile coconut logs a difficult transition that requires substantial persuasion.
She noted the proactive involvement of the private sector, particularly the Hyoulin Sawmill Fiji Ltd, a subsidiary of Long Investment Ltd, which is collaborating on the project. Recently, the sawmill completed the construction of a steam box that will heat-condition coconut and other unconventional forest resources, preparing them for veneer processing and subsequent manufacturing of engineered wood products. Preliminary testing has shown promise, allowing further exploration into commercial integration of senile coconut stem processing.
The project is also examining the use of lower-grade mahogany from the Fiji Hardwood Corporation as a core material. To support participation in this endeavor, a financial modeling tool has been devised, aimed at guiding potential stakeholders along the value chain. This will particularly benefit plywood producers by clarifying profitability opportunities.
Notably, the Labasa-based Valebasoga Tropikboards plywood processor has shown interest in participating, further bolstering the project’s success. Overall, Bainivalu highlighted that this initiative promises significant positive impacts socially, economically, and environmentally by providing farmers with potential income sources and promoting sustainable forestry practices through the use of senile coconut trees.
The project’s advancements provide a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s timber industry, indicating a move towards sustainability and innovation that could transform local economies and practices.
In summary, Fiji’s timber industry is embarking on a promising venture to utilize senile coconut trees, which could lead to sustainable economic growth and diversification in wood product manufacturing while benefiting farmers and the environment.
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