Food Processors Fiji Ltd is establishing a new vegetable and root crop processing center in Batiri, Vanua Levu. The $635K facility includes advanced blast and cold storage capabilities. According to CEO Raneel Mudaliar, this development aims to enhance efficiency, preserve product quality, and support sustainable agricultural growth. The initiative is in line with the company's focus on premium processed products.
"Our commitment to quality and sustainability is reflected in the rich farmland we cultivate, spanning over 400 acres (162 hectares), where we grow a diverse range of fruits and vegetables, including Batiri oranges, cassava, duruka, and coconuts," Mudaliar stated. A segment of the farmland supports over 13,000 citrus trees.
The facility benefits from a skilled team of 19 employees and sources root crops from local communities, starting with Batiri village. Efforts are underway to expand the network of local farmers. A nursery for grafting orange seedlings is also under development to enhance agricultural capabilities.
The company integrates natural production practices, including beekeeping for sustainable pollination and honey production. The processing center features advanced equipment to efficiently manage agricultural produce from both company farms and other farmers across Vanua Levu.
The new facility will enable the purchase, processing, and export of local produce, contributing to economic benefits, employment, and market access for local farmers. Mudaliar emphasized the company's dedication to delivering fresher produce and maintaining high product quality in Vanua Levu.
Processing is conducted at the newly upgraded facility to optimize cost efficiency and freshness, preventing spoilage. Streamlining operations further comes from ensuring that by-products do not require transport, aligning with premium standards.
The company plans to optimize land use over the next two to three years, focusing on expanding cassava cultivation and replanting orange trees to ensure sustainability and productivity. Last year, the company harvested 1,000 tons of sugarcane, with a planned increase to 1,500 tons this year.
In terms of energy efficiency, Food Processors Fiji Ltd is moving forward with its solar project, engaging in grid impact discussions with Energy Fiji Limited. Mudaliar noted this as a step toward sustainable energy integration.
Source: Fiji Sun