The Fijian government has created a vibrant and competitive export sector for a healthy economy by providing cash for investment, creating jobs, encouraging innovation and fostering a demand for skilled workforce.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Hon. Faiyaz Koya while launching the new tobacco product line at the British American Tobacco company in Suva this morning.
Minister Koya said export is vital for the growth of an economy, Fiji has experienced significant growth in exports in 2014 and with companies like BAT breaking through new markets, Fiji can anticipate similar growth this year.
“The establishment of exports by BAT to New Zealand further reinforces our vision to strengthen our position as the manufacturing hub. This new export line will increase export earnings by approximately $3 million,” Minister Koya said.
“The Fijian Government has undertaken significant investment in infrastructure, education and providing incentives to grow the manufacturing sector. It is now the responsibility of the industry to capitalize on the resources that we have.”
Minister Koya encouraged other manufacturers to take the leap into new markets, especially in markets where we have managed to gain better access.
“There is no market that is not reachable, especially as Fiji Airways is working towards establishing new routes and increasing frequency to existing routes, which will provide a direct link to Asia and beyond.”
Minister Koya further added that for a company like BAT that has undertaken substantial investments towards factory upgrades, new machineries and additional storage space for processing, has led to export to the New Zealand market.
General Manager for British American Tobacco Company Ritesh Dass said today’s achievement has been a few years in making.
"This month we begin the manufacture and export of tobacco products into NZ for the very first time which comes to fruition at an investment of around $2m," Mr Dass said.
“Fiji would be exporting around 50m sticks to NZ, generating close to $3m in export revenue. This volume was being manufactured by our Singapore factory until a few months ago.
“Backed by governments sound investment, fiscal and regulatory policies, we have been able to successfully prove our case to the group in having the trust through investing in capability and capacity in helping us with our aim of promoting Fiji as manufacturing hub of the pacific.”