FIJI Water’s parent company, The Wonderful Company, today announced plans to cultivate limes, lemons, papayas, and mangoes, aiming to diversify farming, promote economic growth and reduce the country’s trade deficit.
The southwestern corner of Viti Levu, from Nadi to Sigatoka, has been earmarked as the ideal locality to grow these fruit trees, including Persian seedless limes and Mexican seeded limes. The company based this decision on on-the-ground research it carried out in April this year.
The research, conducted by the company’s experts, entailed visits to farms, businesses, research stations, and potential growing sites across the Fiji Islands. Their findings confirmed that the region, given its favorable tropical climate, suitable soil, and land accessibility, appears ideal for growing these fruit trees.
Commenting on the expansion efforts, Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said the expansion would create “even more economic opportunity” for Fiji while promoting the consumption of locally-grown fruits and enhancing sustainable farming practices.
The company has scheduled a further exploratory trip in July, bringing in their experts to explore honey production and beekeeping opportunities to support biodiversity and improve the local honey industry, as well as to explore potential export markets.
This initiative includes offering training for local beekeepers, conducting research, and providing honey processing facilities.
“Our hope is to build a better future for Fiji’s local growers and consumers by ensuring secure and sustainable food supplies,” said Stewart Resnick, chairman, president, and co-owner of The Wonderful Company. “The opportunity to help create new economic opportunities within Fiji that can empower generations is important to us. We care deeply about the people and success of Fiji, a country that we’re proud to operate in and give back to in many different ways.”
The FIJI Water Foundation has invested over FJD $35 million in community development, access to safe water, education, health, wellness, and environmental sustainability in Fiji since 2007. In addition, feasibility studies for solar farms are planned to promote renewable energy in Fiji.
Photo: The Wonderful Company experts examines soil samples in Sigatoka
