Batiri processing facility boosts agricultural supply

Northern farmers in Fiji now have a dedicated avenue to sell their produce with the commissioning of a new food processing facility in Batiri, Macuata. This facility marks the first operation by Food Processors Fiji in Vanua Levu. It is designed to source selected agricultural products from surrounding communities, process them locally, and then distribute the finished goods to the market.

The initiative is expected to bolster the agricultural supply chain in the North. It offers farmers a local outlet for their harvests and aims to retain economic activity within the community. Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica highlighted the importance of such facilities in enhancing Fiji's food security. He noted that the country imports a significant amount of its food, making it vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions, shipping costs, and climate change impacts.

"Every facility, such as this one, takes local produce and adds value to it here and strengthens our resilience as a result and keeps the economic benefit within our communities," Kamikamica stated. The opening follows a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Processors Fiji Limited, and the Batiri community. This agreement unites farmers, the company, and the government, with farmers contributing land and labor, the company providing investment and market access, and the government offering support through extension services, infrastructure, and policy.

Food Processors Fiji Acting CEO Vinal Chand described the commissioning as the start of a new phase for the company's operations in Batiri. The company plans to focus on efficient and sustainable operations, aiming to increase production and expand access to both current and new markets. This investment is also anticipated to contribute to revitalizing agriculture in Batiri and nearby areas by directly connecting more farmers to processing and market opportunities.

“

We import too much of what we consume and we remain exposed to global shocks of global supply chains, shipping costs and climate change disruption. Every facility, such as this one, takes local produce and adds value to it here and strengthens our resilience as a result and keeps the economic benefit within our communities.