French Investors Explore Fiji Prospects
Fiji-based French companies have indicated interest in expanding its commercial presence in the local market, to the extent where it employs locals.
In a speed meeting session with the local media, nine French-owned companies gave ideas on ways to enhance the Fijian market, including training for business owners in remote areas.
The meeting lasted about two hours where some French business owners have shared their company plans for the year.
Some of the Frenched-owned businesses that have set up in Fiji include:
New Caledonia Trade and Invest
Businesses in New Caledonia want to expand to Fiji, said Rhenaud Hette, an export representative for New Caledonia Trade and Invest.
At least five French companies are setting up their Fiji operations.
“We have growing interests in cosmetics,” said Mr Hette.
“Our trade market is in the millions.”
Soleya
Soleya is a business that specialises in social enterprise solutions and business development for women in the small medium entrepreneurs space.
Established two years ago, Soleya also specialises in project management and administration.
Managing director, Noellie Garand, said about $15,000 from the company’s earnings have been spent on educating women in remote areas.
TotalEnergies
TotalEnergies has 25 service stations across Fiji and is exploring renewable energy opportunities to lessen its carbon footprint.
“We are working to improve our shops to have a wide range of products,” said the company’s managing director, Dennis Cuaycong.
The company signed several contracts with operators that want to grow in the renewable energy base space. TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces, and markets energies, such as oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity.
Pacific Energy
The crude and petroleum oil company has 21 service stations across Fiji with plans to open four more.
Chief marketing officer, Rajnesh Prasad, said the new outlets were earmarked for the Central and Western divisions. Pacific Energy imported up to a billion liters of oil last year.
Environmental Law Oceania Consultancy
Patricia Parkinson, a specialist in international and environment law, set up her business in Fiji, five years ago. Environmental Law Oceania Consultancy designs policies based on environmental law. The consultancy is based in Suva.
SUEZ Consulting
SUEZ Consulting helps cities and industries optimise water management, recycling and waste recovery.
The company has been in Fiji for five years, embedded with the Water Authority of Fiji where it looks into the improvement of water quality.