Delaivuna Farm Fresh officially opened its new feed mill today on Taveuni Island, a significant investment of $650,000 aimed at supplying high-quality poultry feed, not just for their own operations, which produce 4,000 eggs daily, but also for local poultry farmers. This expansion is expected to enhance productivity and has resulted in the creation of ten new jobs within the community.
Company Director Krishneel Deo emphasized that the initiative is much more than a business expansion; it represents a move towards agricultural self-sufficiency. He noted that the rising costs of quality feed had presented substantial challenges, prompting the decision to build the feeding facility.
This development has been in the works since 2011 when the Deo family faced difficulties finding fresh quality eggs while engaged in construction in Taveuni. Beginning with just a dozen hens, they have since scaled their operations to meet the increasing demands of the island. Moreover, Deo expressed excitement about the future, mentioning plans to encourage local farmers to cultivate corn and soybean, having successfully harvested soybean crops in California, highlighting their potential as key ingredients for feed formulations.
The opening of the mill aligns with broader governmental efforts to promote the agriculture sector, particularly in poultry farming. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, reinforced the state’s commitment to fostering this industry through support and protective measures, including a 42% duty protection policy to encourage local production.
This initiative not only marks a significant step towards enhancing local agricultural capacity but also reflects a growing trend in Fiji to diversify its economy away from tourism, as highlighted in related articles discussing investments and strategies aimed at revitalizing the agriculture sector. Amid rising import costs and increasing food demands, such entrepreneurial moves can lead to greater food security, improved economic resilience, and more sustainable agriculture practices for the nation.
As these efforts continue, there is hope for a more self-sufficient and thriving agricultural model in Fiji, promoting local farmers and strengthening the economy.
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