The Minister for Public Enterprises, Charan Jeath Singh is calling for stronger financial discipline and strategic reform at the Fiji Meat Industry Board following a high-level meeting with its Board.
Singh says the Fiji Meat Industry Board plays an important role in Fiji’s agriculture sector and public health system.
He stresses that Fiji Meat Industry Board is not just another state-owned enterprise.
Singh says they established under the Meat Industry Act, and it has a clear mandate to regulate slaughtering operations, maintain food safety standards and provide abattoir services that support livestock farmers and protect public health across the country.
The Minister acknowledged that FMIB carries a dual responsibility,operating as a commercial business while also serving the public good. However, he says public enterprises must gradually move towards greater financial independence.
Singh revealed that after reassuming the Public Enterprises portfolio, he was given clear direction by the Prime Minister to guide state-owned entities towards improved self-sustainability, stronger fiscal discipline and long-term profitability.
Singh also announced the formation of a small, specialised review team within the Ministry.
The team will assess FMIB’s operations, including its cost structure, revenue streams and governance systems.
He clarified that the review is aimed at strengthening oversight, identifying inefficiencies and improving performance — not interfering with the Board’s management.
The Minister also acknowledged ongoing discussions about possible collaboration with Yaqara Pastoral Company Limited, saying closer integration across the livestock value chain could benefit the industry.
He emphasised that stronger coordination between producers and processors will be critical to stabilising supply, improving margins and building long-term resilience within Fiji’s meat industry.
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