Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged all citizens to support locally produced goods by purchasing items that carry the “Fiji Grown” and “Fiji Made” logos. Speaking at the commissioning of the Fiji Rice Mill in Nailaga, Ba, he emphasized the importance of this initiative in bolstering the nation’s food security and striving for self-sufficiency in essential commodities, particularly rice.
Rabuka highlighted that Fiji Rice Ltd (FRL), a wholly government-owned entity, proudly carries the “Fiji Grown” logo on its rice products, reflecting its commitment to local production. He praised the FRL Board for revitalizing the rice industry and for advocating government incentives and support for rice farmers.
The Prime Minister noted that the company’s increased paddy buying capacity and enhanced milling capabilities have reduced costs and boosted sales, with continued government subsidies aiding its efforts. Historically, FRL operated rice mills in Nausori and Dreketi, but only the Dreketi mill remains operational since the Nausori mill ceased operations in 2004. To meet the growing demand, FRL has also ventured into commercial rice farming.