Good news for farmers, exporters

Good News for local farmers and exporters as importers see the potential in Fiji products.

Very soon Australian importers are expected to buy more products from Fiji.

As early as the first quarter of next year the first container of mixed products is expected to be shipped to Australia.

The Fiji Consulate General's Office in Sydney confirms last month the buyers met with manufacturers/producers of dried goods and exporters of fresh/frozen vegetables, dalo and cassava in Nadi, Lautoka, Ba, Sigatoka and Suva.

The meetings went very well with buyers and potential suppliers.

The Consulate said this trip also opened up other areas for export opportunities that include the export of freeze pack vegetables like okra or Bhindi, peas, jackfruit etc.

They say there is also great opportunity for desiccated coconut, canned fruits, like mango in syrup, pineapples or pineapple juice adding that another area that should be considered is palm tree plantation, this can be converted to palm oil.

Traditionally Fiji has been exporting garments, agro based products, packed foodstuff, mineral water, timber etc.

The buyers also outline other areas which can be developed for greater access to the Australian market and were prepared to share their expertise to develop these products.

Vice Consul Frances Vuibau coordinated this mission and also represented seven major Australian importers who were unable to visit Fiji at this particular point in time.

She was accompanied by two major importers, Managing Director of Hindustan Imports of Melbourne, Vincent Sequeira and Sydney's Ayers Rock Trading, Managing Director, Bala Naidu on the four day visit to Nadi, Lautoka, Ba, Sigatoka and Suva.