$140m project to provide 400 jobs

PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says FIJI Water’s most recent $140million capacity extension project — which will provide employment for some 400 people — will increase the country’s exports and further improve our foreign exchange earnings.

While officiating at the commissioning of the capacity project in Yaqara, Ra yesterday, the PM noted such growth offered a clear sign of confidence in the company to invest and expand its operations in Fiji.

“This all underscores the critical importance of why responsible corporate citizens such as FIJI Water, in partnership with the Government, have a shared responsibility to fortify our stance and strengthen global commitments to combat climate change,” the PM said.

“Who would have imagined back then that water sourced from here in Yaqara would become the number one premium imported bottled water in the United States and be exported to some of the most exclusive resorts, hotels, and restaurants across 60 countries around the world.

“Today, I am proud to say that Earth’s Finest Water is now sourced from one of the most advanced water factories in the world.”

Mr Rabuka said the Government was committed to supporting and facilitating both foreign and local investors alike by providing an enabling environment and making Fiji a friendly and stable country for investment.

He also informed stakeholders that through this type of investment, they would be able to generate employment opportunities for our people and would further improve their standard of living.

“I am also very happy to hear that these new lines will achieve a 10 per cent increase in energy efficiency efforts and result in 10 per cent less cardboard in its packaging, demonstrating FIJI Water’s long-term environmental sustainability goals. They’ve even started transitioning nearly 40 per cent of their water bottles to recycled plastic.”