Western Fish Exporter Plans to Expand His Business
Across the globe, fish and fisheries have been identified as being a crucial element in achieving food security. In the Pacific Islands region, the major contribution of fisheries to livelihoods, revenue and development is undisputed.
Fiji’s coastal communities are highly dependent on fisheries resources for their food and sustenance and of course for meeting their traditional, social and religious obligations.
Fish Exports to Meet the Growing Demand
Many Fijians have moved abroad indefinitely to make a living and they often yearn to get a taste of the delicacies and food back home.
This is the very reason why most Pacific Island countries have invested in setting up small businesses to cater for the needs of their fellow countrymen living abroad.
From agricultural produce to fisheries resources, companies in the Pacific have certainly made it their business to send a ‘taste of the Pacific’ abroad.
63-year old Mohammed Shaheed lives in Saweni, Lautoka and owns the Paradise Limited PTE Company- a fish export business.
His decision to start the business was not born overnight, but took many months of planning.
“I kept getting requests from family members living abroad for fish as they missed the fish here in Fiji. That is when we started talking and planning,” smiled Mr Shaheed.
Walking the Talk
Mr Shaheed’s passion for the sea started from a very young age. He calls himself a fisherman first before businessman.
He understands very well the struggles that fisherfolks go through when trying to make ends meet.
“I was fishing from a young age. It taught me so many lessons and one of them is patience. Not every fishing expedition will turn out well. There are good days and there days which could have been better,” he smiled.
Mr Shaheed says that it has been a humbling experience as he learnt the ropes whilst climbing up the ladder of success.
“I was taught to fish and sell and that was my only goal. I worked hard day and night even when I started my own family,” he said.
“Now I have 4 sons and a daughter who I can boldly say have been brought up through money that I earned as a fisherman.”
Starting His Fish Export Business
After many discussions and planning, Mr Shaheed knew that he had to get the ball rolling.
“There is a huge market abroad for fish but just not enough supply. I know for a fact that most Fijians living abroad miss their dalo and fish. So whatever amount of fish that I can send across, the better. I have an open market which is currently working well for me and I know that through greater partnerships, we will be able to grow our fish exports business,” said a confident Mr Shaheed.
A few weeks ago, the company sent 919.80 kilogrammes of fish to their United States of America market.
“We did not get enough supply but that is to be expected. The business must go on and I am truly grateful to my suppliers who are fisherfolk from all over the Western Division.”
“They have a clear understanding of the requirements that I need in order to export fish to the United States. The species which include Walu, Kawakawa, Ulavi, Kawago and Ta need to be of reasonable size. Prices are varied if they are properly gilled and gutted.”
“I am also looking forward to our next consignment in a few weeks time and I am content in knowing that our Fijians living abroad have a taste of home every time they are homesick,” smiled Mr Shaheed.
He adds that Government has really put in a lot of effort to help the fishing communities and he is pleased to be assisting fisherfolk by providing them with market opportunities.
Current and future plans
The hardworking man says that he has been able to branch out to other small businesses as well and is looking forward to more great achievements.
“But yes, the fish business will continue and I have plans to expand. Currently, we are also supplying fish to a few hotels and resorts in Denarau as well as Mana Island Resort. It has certainly grown and I am so happy that I have two sons who have taken after me and shown keen interest as well in the fish business,” added Mr Shaheed.
He adds that he is grateful for the continued guidance and support from the Ministry of Fisheries and knows that it will continue and strengthen in the years ahead.
Ministry advise on export and import
The Ministry’s Offshore Fisheries Management Division facilitates the issuance of permit for export and import of fisheries products.
Permanent Secretary for Fisheries and Forestry, Pene Baleinabuli says that there are processes which needs to be followed by anyone who wishes to export or import fish or fisheries products.
“Of course, countries also have their own set of rules and regulations that must be adhered to. So our processes are diligent and ensures that we tick all the right boxes required for a successful export or import consignment,” adds Mr Baleinabuli.
“Interested individuals or companies who wish to explore opportunities in the export of fish or fisheries products are encouraged to visit the Ministry and speak to our dedicated team on the ground who will be able to advise you on the steps that you need to take.”
Government will certainly support its stakeholders towards achieving a sustained, and inclusive, private-public partnership, promote investment and growth as well as access to quality services and economic opportunities and increased opportunities for employment and income-generating activities.