A team from Aitken Spence PLC, a prominent Sri Lankan conglomerate, through its subsidiary Elpitiya Plantations’ is exploring potential business ventures within the agricultural sector.
Aitken Spence PLC Board Director, Dr. Rohan Fernando says Fiji presents a wealth of opportunities for commercial farming, particularly in sectors such as papaya, pineapples, dragon fruits, berries, coffee, tea, mangoes, cinnamon, lime, and passion fruit.
He says their approach is comprehensive, encompassing everything from innovative farming practices to advanced processing techniques, with a strategic focus on both local consumption and export markets.
The visit included productive site inspections and meetings with various local stakeholders.
The notable engagements included discussions with Nature’s Way Cooperative and Jack’s Mango Farm, where potential opportunities for mango and strawberry cultivation were explored.
There were also meetings with Ranadi Plantation and Bula Coffee which opened avenues for future partnerships in plantation agriculture and coffee cultivation.
Aitken Spence’s commitment to introducing cutting-edge agricultural technologies and exploring renewable energy solutions is expected to significantly enhance Fiji’s agricultural productivity and sustainability.
The four-day visit by the Aitken Spence team was arranged through the support of Investment Fiji, the Commercial Agriculture Taskforce, Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises and Communications, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways.
The Aitken Spence delegation engaged with a diverse range of stakeholders, including Government ministries, food processing facilities, distributors, and local farmers.
Investment Fiji Chief Executive Officer Kamal Chetty says the fruitful engagement with Aitken Spence aligns seamlessly with our vision for sustainable economic growth.
Chetty says they are excited about the potential benefits this partnership will bring to Fiji’s agricultural sector and the broader economy.
Aitken Spence is now preparing for subsequent visits to conduct a more detailed analysis.
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