Fiji Sun

Logger Urges Locals to Plant for Export

- FREDERICA ELBOURNE SUVA Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

Abusinessm­an says the Government decision to reduce superannua­tion contributi­on from employers has allowed him to employ more people.

Touch Wood Fiji director Imran Qamer made the comment saying he didn’t want to anyone to sleep on an empty stomach.

The Navua-base businessma­n announced plans to plant 5000 chilli plants, which will be distribute­d to villages in the vicinity.

“There won’t be any bond signed with these families, they can harvest their chilies to sell on the local market, or use it for personal use.” Mr Qamer said farmers could sell their produce to him for export.

Building farms for harvest

“I will be giving 50,000 bags of sawdust on a monthly basis to farmers,” he said.

“We are planning to use up to 600,000 bags of sawdust manure into building farms for villagers.” He said Make a Difference Fiji, a Deuba-based non-government organisati­on, will help distribute the seedlings, while providing assistance for the project.

Touch Wood FijiLtd is a timber mill in Navua that consists of a processing yard, modern sawing equipment, a large air drying yard, kiln and treatment facility which ensures regular and consistent supply of rough sawn mahogany.

Fiji mahogany is valued for its high quality, beauty and durability and is made into luxury furniture, boats, expensive panelling, musical instrument­s and other wood products.

 ??  ?? Touch Wood Fiji director Imaar Qamer, second from left, with chillie plants which will be distribute­d to families in Deuba.
Touch Wood Fiji director Imaar Qamer, second from left, with chillie plants which will be distribute­d to families in Deuba.

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