Food Processors Fiji Limited has strengthened its operations in Vanua Levu with the commissioning of its $635,000 processing centre at Batiri in Dreketi.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Industries, Commerce, Business Development and Public Enterprise Manoa Kamikamica commissioned the facility, which is expected to improve the processing of locally grown vegetables, root crops and other agricultural produce.
Kamikamica says the investment is a vote of confidence in Vanua Levu, particularly in Macuata Province, where agriculture and agro-processing can thrive together.
Acting CEO Vinal Chand says the facility is also expected to support the processing and export of locally grown produce and contribute to employment and economic activity in the Northern Division.
The facility includes blast and cold storage capabilities designed to preserve the quality of produce, reduce spoilage and improve processing efficiency.
The new centre will allow Food Processors Fiji to purchase and process produce closer to where it is grown, providing greater market opportunities for farmers while reducing the risk of produce being lost through spoilage.
Food Processors Fiji is planning to further develop its agricultural operations over the next two to three years, including expanding cassava production and replanting orange trees to improve long-term productivity.
The company is also progressing plans for a solar energy project as part of efforts to improve the sustainability and efficiency of its operations.
