The scene at Vodafone Fiji headquarters yesterday. Staff arranging cartons of mobile phones while eager customers wait in line for their turn to be served. Photo: VODAFONE FII

Clearance to
prepare for 4G phones and devices

By RANOBA BAOA

A crowd formed at Vodafone Fiji’s headquarters yesterday despite the hot and humid conditions.
They came to to take advantage of what was advertised as a massive sale.
Thousands flocked to get their hands on the special deals.
And special deals they did offer as witnessed that in just over two hours the most sought-after smartphones like Samsung Galaxy 4 and iPhones were out of stock.
Vodafone Manager – Sponsorship & Public Relations Liga Gukisuva said phones and handsets were sold from as low as $5 to a maximum $600.
He said the aim of the sale was to clear the warehouse and prepare for their new stock which would be compatible with their latest 4G network.
“Never have we witnessed a sale like this before. The staff have not had a fi ve-minute break the demand and response from the crowd is just overwhelming,” Mr Gukisuva said.
Mr Gukisuva said people just kept buying.
“Some of our phone packages did not come in full sets. That’s only because they were demonstration phones but it doesn’t mean they’re not working.”
He said they worked well and people could easily buy the missing items in other retail shops which were affordable.
While there was no results out of total sales yet, Mr Gukisuva said it was very significant.

Customer testimonial
A tired, yet spirited Makereta Bai travelled from Newtown to get her hands on one of the smartphones and enable her to learn more of the technology.
“This is a very good sale. I think Vodafone should have a sale like this every four months so we can have a new phone every quarter as well,” she laughed. Not only that but it’s good that the sale’s been organised because not many people had the money to afford those high end phones but with the sale well now we can.”
Even though she heard the news of the most sought-after phones being out of stock, Sala Rabila of Mead Road was still happy to get her hands on a phone.
“If it can receive and make calls, then why not! I will take it. But at the moment I have my eye on some of the smartphones that are still available.”
The weekend sale continues today and ends at 4pm.

Vendors set up stalls to sell whatver they could during Westpac’s Microfianance Expo. Photo: PAULINI RATULAILAI

By MARAIA VULA

The year’s first Westpac Microfinance Expo in partnership with the Fiji National Provident Fund was hailed as a success.
Westpac manager Sustainability, Eseta Nadakuitavuki said: “After conducting the survey last year, the findings proved most micro finance entrepreneurs prefer a monthly micro finance market day.
“Given the success of the day and night market last year now we have planned a monthly event and the next event is on February 20.
“This year’s expo was a success because we had registered 30 sellers on midday Friday but yesterday we had to accommodate more sellers.
“Most of these entrepreneurs were regular sellers while 15 percent of them were new faces at the expo. Given the success of the day and night market now we have planned for a monthly event,” she said.
Ms Nadakuitavuki stated they were grateful to the FNPF for providing the venue for free and they do value their partnership in moving forward.

Expo success
Micro business vendor, Fei Fong, said: “After participating for three years, every year it gets better and I prepare myself in time for the market day.
“I don’t have to pay for anything, all I have to do is sell my craft work such as pillow cases, Sulu’s, pot plants and Chinese buns. If I am lucky I can earn $100 to $200 and it depends since school started it’s been very quite.”
45 year old, Rajni Prasad a vendor as well anticipated a good crowd that turned up early in the morning.
“This event is good because it helps us women to learn new things and gain knowledge in running a business.
Ms Prasad was selling chutney, roti parcels and puri parcels which she estimated to earn roughly $200.

Courts (Fiji) Limited chief executive P. L. Munasinghe (left) explains the Christmas promotions draw while Police officers witnessing this look on. Photo: RAMA

By RANOBA BAOA and MARAIA VULA

Courts (Fiji) Limited yesterday finalised what it dubbed as its biggest and most sucessful promotions of all time.
The draw of the 2013 Courts Christmas Grand Promotions in partnership with Vodafone Fiji was witnessed at Courts Megastore in Samabula yesterday by customers and partners.
Courts chief executive offi cer P.L. Munasinghe said: “The promotions we ran under the theme ‘Thrills on Wheels’ is historic in many respects.
“I say it’s historic because for the fi rst time we are giving a way over $600,000 worth of gift pack and giveaways to our customers.
“Secondly for the fi rst time we are giving away four vehicles and now interestingly the vehicles are promoted and marketed by our own public company Vision Motors.
“Thirdly when I say historic I mean that this year we had the highest number of customer participation in this competition.”
The major prizes were a Peugeot French SUV, three Chevrolet Soni Cars and other prizes all valued at $600,000.
In listing all the reason for its historic reasons, Mr Munasinghe said the promotion was in the ultimate philosophy of the company and that is to give back to customers.
“We actually believe in good value to customers that is centric to our business as well.
Our philosophy is to change people’s lives and we believe that this one of the ways in doing it.”

Vodafone
Vodafone Fiji manager-Dealers & Devices Avichal Prasad said this long partnership with Courts is something that customers can look forward to.
“With this partnership the customers benefit when they get to feel from Courts and Vodafone as well all of what they have purchased,” he said.
“This is especially when we focus on the Vodafone products and the ICT products which Courts and Vodafone are selling together.”
Winners drawn yesterday will be officially handed over their prizes this Saturday.

Redraws
It is understood that organisers had to default some of the potential winners names because some had yet to clear to arrears while others were unidentifi able.
Organisers said that a redraw was necessary to fall in line with the terms and conditions of the promotions.

Top winners

q Grand Prize Peugeot French
SUV ($89,000)
Sailesh Pala, Ritova Street, Samabula
Purchase: Pressure Cooker at $89

q Chevrolet Soni Car
Nitsh Naicker of Dreketi in Labasa
Purchase: Samsung Galaxy phone
at $409

q Chevrolet Soni Car
Aman Sami of Viniyasi in Nadi
Purchase: Alcatel Smartphone at $179

q Chevrolet Soni Car
Simione Namua of Nakasi, Suva
Purchase: Alcatel Smartphone at $179

Toberua Island Resort,

Source: TRIP ADVISOR

Toberua Island Resort has been crowned the best small hotel in Fiji in the 2014 ratings of global travel website Trip Advisor.
Toberua is a privately-owned island with fifteen recently refurbished traditional bures.
Located in the Lomaiviti Group off the eastern side of Fiji’s main island Viti Levu, Toberua Island Resort is four sandy acres of lush tropical gardens.
Nukubati Private Island in Labasa, overlooking the Great Sea Reef comes in second on the list.
The results of TripAdvisor’s annual hotel popularity contest came out last week.

By LOSIRENE CHAND

The Fiji Sugar Corporation says it will reply to the calls of National Farmers Union member sugarcane farmers in the Northern Division in due course.
This comes after they wrote a letter of petition to Government for compensation for Standover Cane for 2013.
Corporation executive chairman Abdul Khan reassured: “I’m aware a letter has been sent to the PM and we will comment in due course and reply accordingly”.
The National Farmers Union is the cane farmers’ body linked to the Fiji Labour Party and its leader, Mahendra Chaudhry.
President Surendra Lal said that they are concerned that what he said was at least 20,000 tonnes of cane have not been harvested.
This, he said, was in part due to what Mr Lal called the collapse of Fiji Sugar Corporation’s rail transport system.
It was also due to poor condition of cane access roads in the North, he alleged.
Mr Lal said that the union had raised this issue with the Fiji Sugar Corporation in a letter dated September 9. But he said no action had been taken as yet by the authorities.
“FSC should shoulder the blame for not harvesting all standing cane for the 2013 season on time,” he said.
Mr Lal said the late start of crushing at Labasa Mill on June 27 was not because of the delayed maturity of cane.
It was because the corporation was not able to repair the loading facility at Malau damaged in 2012 and growers lost a month of prime harvesting time, he alleged.
He added that growers were seeking compensation at $40 per tonne for all standover cane for last season.

Costs
Mr Lal said in the case of the standover cane for the 2013 season, growers had been exposed to severe fi nancial pressures as they had to pay lease fees and other things.
“High costs were incurred on farm inputs such as fertiliser and the hiring of labour costs to cultivate the cane. All this money is wasted now that their cane has not been harvested.”

A view of the now quiet and not-so-busy Labasa Sugar Mill in the Norh. Photo: LOSIRENE CHAND

By MARAIA VULA

Government’s MV Rogovoka II yesterday departed for the second time for the Northern Lau II Group of Islands from Government Shipping Services Jetty in Walu Bay, Suva.
MV Rogovoka II is making up for the services provided by South Island Traders’ vessel Liahona which normally services the route under the Government franchise scheme.
MV Liahona owner, Ulaiasi Baivatu, confirmed Liahona has encountered engine problems.
He said this was the reason they could not service Northern Lau II, Lomaiviti and lower Southern Lau.
“I have informed the matter to the Ministry of Works, Transport and Public Utilities and they have found other vessels to service these routes until the problem is fixed.
“But at this stage I cannot confirm when the vessel will be fixed and if we will be servicing any time soon,” he said.
The islands franchise ports being serviced are Yacata, Cikobia, Tuvuca, Nayau and Lakeba.
The franchise is paid by government and the ministry of transport is using the MV Rogovoka II to service lower Southern Lau and Northern Lau II islands once a month.
The Ului Nabukelevu vessel was also chartered by Government under the franchise scheme to service the Lomaiviti trip to Gau, Nairai and Batiki islands.
About 70 passengers are allowed on board the MV Rogovoka II with their cargo.
It is also understood the franchise contract still belongs to South Island Traders.
But if in any case of emergency, other vessels can be used under the directive of the Ministry of Transport.
The last trip made by the MV Liahona was in December servicing its franchise routes.

MV Rogovoka II at the Government Shipping Services Jetty in Walu Bay, Suva, before leaving for Lau. Photo: RONALD KUMAR

By RACHNA LAL

RB Patel Group Limited’s sales revenue for the six months ended December 31, 2013, has increased by 4.5 per cent.
The company recorded sales revenue of $53,177,327 compared to $50,904,242 recorded for the same period the year before.
Net profit after tax for the period was $2,569,456 compared to the previous year’s result of $2,397,640, an increase of 7.2 per cent.
This was announced through the South Pacific Stock Exchange yesterday as the company released its half year unaudited financial statements.
Company chairman, Padam Lala, described the results to be extremely pleasing given the local and global economic and financial conditions.
“The company has performed considerably better and this is evident in a comparison between the half year’s trading results,” he said.
Mr Lala said general market conditions reflect the business confidence resulting from recent tax reductions and incentives announced by the Government.
“However, increases in the cost of doing business and the restriction on margins imposed on some high volume items continue to provide challenges for the industry in maintaining profitability.”

Interim dividend payout

RB Patel Group Limited board also declared a final interim dividend of four cents per share, a total of $1.2 million to be paid on February 24, 2014.
Mr Lala has emphasised this will be the seventh consecutive year the company has maintained its first interim dividend at four cents per share.

RB Patel Group chairman, Padam Lala (left)

Honiara: The Solomon Islands Government’s appointment of an experienced Fijian national brings a new direction for the country’s tourism industry. The aim is to make the industry a top foreign income earner in 10 years time.
Minister for Culture and Tourism Samuel Manetoali said the appointment of Josefa Tuamoto as the new chief executive for the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau (SIVB) will bring a wealth of experience in marketing Solomon Islands as a tourism destination in the world.
“Mr Tuamoto brings to the bureau vast and a wealth of experience in the area of marketing,” he said at a Government-hosted dinner on Saturday to officially welcome Mr Tuamoto.

Solomon Islands’ struggles
The country’s tourism industry continues to struggle to increase its visitor arrivals each year.
It is for this reason the Government and Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau decided to recruit an expert to help promote the country as a tourism destination.
“I know there are lots of obstacles in developing our tourism industry, however, having someone like Mr Tuamoto is a step in the right direction in our desire to market our tourism industry,” Mr Manetoali said.

Long-term plan
The Government’s long term plan is to have tourism as one of the country’s top foreign income earner to create jobs and income for people and to help finance some essential services like health and education.
“That is why we need to spend more on our tourism sector and for any form of spending into our tourism is in my view an investment for the future of our economy,” Mr Manetoali said.

Tuamoto sights potential
In his remarks, Mr Tuamoto said there is a lot of potential in Solomon Islands.
But, he said it was crucial for all industry partners to work with a common goal in order to raise the industry to newer heights.
“I can see the potential that is here in the Solomon Islands but there is no silver bullet to solve the tourism industry problems in here and anywhere in the world,” he said.
Mr Tuamoto is expected to travel around the country soon to visit all tourism operators to set goals and targets under this year’s theme of “Taking a Step Change”.
“I know that with all the commitment and passion that we have, we will make tourism one of the key foreign exchange earners in the next five to ten years,” he said.
– Solomon Islands Government

Former Tourism Fiji chief executive Josefa Tuamoto.

To David Gilmour, original thinking and the ability to stay ahead of the curve are essential if one’s aim is to make it in the business world.
During his 60-year career as an entrepreneur, Mr Gilmour, a longtime Palm Beacher, states with confidence that he always has pursued ventures that anticipate, rather than follow, trends.
Mr Gilmour, 82, gained international fame for his foray into the premium-bottled-water arena with the launch of Fiji Water in the 1990s.
He will be recognised on Saturday as one of 2014’s Outstanding Business Leaders by Northwood University at its 34th awards gala, held at The Breakers.
Mr Gilmour is one of eight nationally known businessmen and businesswomen who will be honored by the university, which has campuses in West Palm Beach, Michigan and Texas.

Business involvements
The Canada-born businessman has been involved in a spectrum of ventures, from developing hotels and investing in gold mines and real estate to working in the electronics and publishing industries.
His latest effort, Wakaya Perfection, addresses people’s desire for self-improvement — through natural and organic health-targeted products produced on the South Pacific island that he has owned since the early 1970s.
Wakaya Island is also the site of a luxury resort property he runs with his wife, Jill, that is recognised as one of the world’s most exclusive destinations.
Among Wakaya’s biggest fans is Oprah Winfrey.
“I learned that in order to get ahead, you have to take risks,” Mr Gilmour said.
“And you have to believe in yourself.”
To succeed in the business arena, Mr Gilmour advises people to do their homework: “Leave nothing to chance. You have to plan out the strategy, and you can’t do anything you’re not passionate about.”
And money can’t be the only motivation, he added.
“You have to fall in love with it; otherwise, the message isn’t real.”

A role model
President and chief executive of Northwood University, Keith Pretty, said: “David Gilmour is a role model.
“He is what you might call a ‘serial entrepreneur,’ but one who has made a mark in a variety of industries and who has a global focus.
“We are pleased to honor him, and I am certain he will be an inspiration to our students.”
Mr Gilmour will appear at the suburban West Palm Beach campus on Friday, at forums, where the honorees will share their entrepreneurial exploits.
Mr Gilmour said: “I hope to get these young people to think outside the box, and not to think like a bureaucrat — that will get you nowhere.”

Fiji Water and Wakaya Perfection founder, Canada-based businessman, David Gilmour. Photo: RAMA

Season outlook: Looking good

By RACHNA LAL

The Fiji Sugar Corporation executive chairman, Abdul Khan, says they will push for a number of major capital investment projects to start off this year.
“The capital investments we are looking at are in terms of ethanol, sugar refinery and the co-generation projects,” he said.
Mr Khan said these will be the major highlights of the year for them.
The other thing the corporation will be looking into seriously is bringing the much-talked about mechanical harvesters.
Mr Khan said this is because they are seeing the number of people available as cane cutters are diminishing.
“So what we are going to do is fill that gap. Obviously we will not be able to do that 100 per cent,” he said.
“But whatever the gap there is, where we can use mechanical harvesters, we will definitely introduce these.”

Crops planted and targets
Mr Khan said except for the Rakiraki area where there does not seem to be much rain, in the rest of the areas, the crop is looking quite good this early in the season.
“We are quietly confident we might see two million tonnes or more of sugarcane available for processing in this season,” he said.
“If we do get that, our target forecast for sugar make is around 200,000 tonnes to 210,000 tonnes and therefore we should be able to achieve that.”

Processing and maintenance
Meanwhile, Mr Khan indicated they are looking at starting the cane processing season at all the four mills in June but depending on the cane maturity.
“This is subject to the sugarcane maturity to ensure there is enough cane to extract the sugar,” Mr Khan said.
Cane processing season is what used to be called the sugarcane crushing season but it is now called cane processing season because the sugarcane is now processed.
Mr Khan further confirmed they started off with the maintenance of the four mills the past week and are well and truly into it.
“We just want to make sure that our mills are prepared for the coming season,” he said.
“The mills are in reasonable conditions. Taking into account the age of some of the machinery we have in our four mills, we just have to ensure we maintain them the best we can.
“I think if we do the right maintenance and have it targeted so that it gives the best value, we should be able to operate our mills efficiently once again.
“Now that we have started the maintenance, we will go right through to the cane processing season.”

Cane access road
The Ministry of Sugar has invited expressions of interest from reputable companies to undertake upgrading of cane access roads in Fiji’s cane belt.
Cane access roads provide a vital link between farmers and the sugar mills in the transportation of cut cane for processing.
Mr Khan said Government normally allocates $2 million towards the upgrade of cane access roads.
“What we want to do is once we identify those cane access roads that need maintaining, we want to ensure it is maintained to the required standards,” he said.
Export markets
With our preferential sugar access into the European Union market coming to an end in 2017, Mr Khan said they are continually looking at new markets.
He, however, stated: “It is difficult to find new market.”
“I think at the moment because the world market price is suppressed compared to what we get in the EU market because of our preferential access.
“The question that every buyer would ask is why would they pay us a premium when they can get the sugar at the world market price which is a lot lower – this is a logical question.”

Standover cane
Responding to complaint lodged by the National Farmers Union demanding for compensation for standover cane in 2013, Mr Khan said they take each complaint as it comes.
“We investigate it and if it worth taking further, we do and if not we advise them what the outcome is,” he said.

Workers of Fiji Water, who were made redundant in 2011, have received their Bonus Payment, which was payable to them before their redundancy.
Minister for Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Mr Jone Usamate confirmed this.
He said about 85 workers from the villages of Rabulu, Drauniivi, Togavere and other surrounding villagers received their payments last year in December and in January this year amounting to about $40,900.00.
The issue was brought to the Minister’s attention by the workers during one of the Minister’s Road Shows held last year.
Consequently, investigations were carried out by the Ministry’s Complaints Resolution Team (CRT), and with continuous networking and cooperation from the Fiji Water management, the team was able to facilitate the workers’ bonus payment.
“The CRT was formed primarily to focus on speedy resolution of all employment related cases referred by the Minister and PS for Labour and other senior government officials,” Mr Usamate said.
“So far the CRT has managed to resolve 80 per cent of the cases received during the Road Shows, and it is our intention that the pending cases be settled by next month.”
The Minister thanked the Fiji Water and its management for honouring their commitment towards the workers and closely collaborating with the Ministry for the successful resolution of the cases.  The Minister was thankful that the company was willing to do the right thing for those who had worked for it in the past, which sets a good example for other employers in Fiji.
“Fiji needs employers who care for their workers, and even for those who have worked for them in the past, to ensure that they are not deprived of what is rightfully theirs.  I am thankful that we have been able to work together with Fiji Water to assist these workers. I only wish more employers would show the same kind of concern for social justice shown by the Fiji Water.
My Ministry’s role is to ensure social justice, and in this case, with the full co-operation of their employer we have been able to do that. Thank you Fiji Water,” the Minister said.
Workers who received their outstanding payments were delighted and expressed their deepest appreciation towards the government and the Fiji Water for the quick response on the settlement of their cases since its lodgment last year.
A worker Mrs Loasana Turagabeci who was made redundant was elated to receive her payment and thanked the Ministry of Labour and the company for the timely response.
“I would like to thank the Ministry of Labour and the management of the company for the payment. We were able to do our Christmas shopping and purchase items that we really needed,” Mr Turagabeci said.
- MINFO NEWS

From left: Eurpecar Fiji manager, Sunil Sharma, Hertz Rental Business Development manager Rohini Raj (Secretary), newly-elected president of the association Mohammed Sareem of Suva Car Rentals Limited (right) during the annual general meeting at The Fiji Club yesterday. Photo: RANOBA BAOA

By RANOBA BAOA

The Fiji Rental Car Association plans to develop a comprehensive Code of Conduct for members which is expected to come out in March or April.
During its annual general meeting yesterday at the Fiji Club, newly-appointed president, Mohammed Sareem, said this would be one of the top priorities as he plans to takes the association to ‘greater heights’.
“We want to bring the industry to some standards and in doing so, we have to develop a best practices system for all association members,” Mr Sareem said.
“These would be on how to liaise with customers, our presentation and more of this will become part of the rental product.
“You’ve got to have some ethics when you come into the industry and that is what we will try and propose which is very important.”

Tackling problems
He said it was imperative they have these standards in place as the association is growing and as such wishes to tackle problems of the past.
This includes problems which are sometimes beyond their control.
“We have seen rental companies coming up and closing and we don’t want that to be happening,” Mr Sareem noted.
“The new players are coming and the old ones are getting out. We do not want that to happen.
“We want healthy competition because we have invested heavily into the country and we want that to be protected.”

Registering members
The association will now get as many registered rental dealers onboard and giving them a grace period to register.
“We all wanted to have one voice because there is a lot of common problems that we share and things we would like to address to the stakeholders and that is important for us to address it as one voice,” he said.
“There is an exemption period that we have given, you just pay us the membership fee by March 31 and there is no joining fee.”

Executive Members

President- Mohammed Sareem, Suva Car Rentals Limited

V/President -  Anand Achari, Director of Westside Motorbike Rentals Fiji LTD

Treasurer – Sada Prasad, Budget Rentals Nadi

Secretary – Rohini Raj, Hertz Rentals

Kaiming Qiu (left), managing director of Kaiming Agro Processing Limited, inspects crystallised ginger with his workers.

Kaiming Agro Processing Limited, a ginger export company based in Navua has taken positive steps towards ensuring its products meet high food safety standards.
Assisted by the Increasing Agricultural Commodity Trade (IACT) project, the company has acquired ISO22000 accreditation.
This means that Kaiming Agro’s food safety management system is of an international standard.
The IACT project is funded by the European Union and implemented by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC).
The accreditation is expected to increase the company’s competitiveness in the global market.
The Managing Director of Kaiming Agro, Kaiming Qiu, said that the accreditation will help his company comply with the strict international market requirements, especially those imposed by western countries.
“Having ISO22000 certification will give our current buyers and potential customers more confidence in us. It will certainly increase our market share and our profits,” he said.

Technical support
Mr Qiu commended the key role played by the IACT project in assisting Kaiming Agro with training of staff, system introduction, documentation, professional consultancy and financial support for the audit required for the accreditation.
“Given the technical support provided by IACT, we now have better trained staff and adequate documentation of techniques, methods and procedures to help ensure and maintain the quality of our products to the markets we supply,” he said.

Kaiming Agro expansion
Since starting in 2006, Kaiming Agro has expanded greatly.
Last year, the company made around $4 million, mostly from the export of processed ginger products such as ginger confectionery, but also from the sale of other root crops.
Their markets are in New Zealand, Australia and the USA.
Mr Qiu expects to export to other regions in the near future, as demand for Fiji-grown ginger continues to increase in the US and European markets.
His company is one of 42 enterprises being supported in the Pacific by the IACT project.
This project aims to strengthen the export capacity of Pacific Island countries and territories in the primary industries of agriculture, forestry, aquaculture and livestock.

Commitment
The IACT Export Processing Officer, Apiame Cegumalua, says that Kaiming Agro’s accreditation is evidence of the company’s commitment to the production of safe food for consumers, and efficient management of its food safety system.
Ms Cegumalua this was not an easy feat, as any company hoping to achieve international accreditation would need the ongoing commitment of its top management and workers to ensure that safety practices are maintained.
She said that, once accredited, the responsibility was on the business to monitor its practice and maintain the standards; renewal of certification depends on a successful annual audit.
Cegumalua and her team, together with a consultant, worked with Kaiming Agro to help the company reach the compliance level to be ISO22000 certified. This process lasted almost nine months.
Other projects
The IACT project is currently working with four enterprises in Fiji and two in Tonga to achieve Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) systems compliance and accreditation.
The Fiji-based enterprises are Bula Island Food Supplies, Maqere Exports Limited, Popular Kava Limited and Crab Company (Fiji) Limited, while the Tongan companies are Nishi Trading Company Limited and Jones Trading Limited.
– Secretariat of the Pacific Community

The Attorney-General and Minister for Industry and Trade, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum (fifth left) with from left: Investment Fiji chairman, Truman Bradley, deputy secretary industry and business development, Maciu Lumelume, our High Commissioner to India, Yogesh Karan, Permanent Secretary for Industry and Trade, Shaheen Ali with Mauritius Minister for Industry, Commerce and Consumer Protection, Sayyad Abd-Al-Cader Sayed and the rest of the Mauritius delegates in Bangalore, India. Photo: MINFO NEWS

Agreement being finalised to strengthen co-operation

By RACHNA LAL

Fiji and Mauritius have agreed to finalise a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two Governments to allow close co-operation in terms of investment.
This would be between Investment Fiji and the Mauritian Bureau of Investment.
The decision was made following our Attorney-General and Minister for Industry and Trade Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum’s meeting with the Mauritian Minister for Industry, Commerce and Consumer Protection, Sayyad Abd-Al-Cader Sayed.
The meeting took place on Monday in Bangalore, India, on the sidelines of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Partnership Summit 2014.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said the meeting would enable both countries to develop relations between their respective Government agencies and encourage mutually beneficial opportunities.
“The MOU will facilitate close collaboration between Fiji and Mauritius in facilitating investments and will drastically improve the ease of doing business,” he said.

Other possibilities
Both Ministers also explored the possibility of enhancing co-operation and collaboration within the sugar and tourism sectors.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum mentioned Mauritius had already developed and implemented its restructure programme over the past two decades.
“Since both Mauritius and Fiji have similar demographics, the possibility of working with Mauritius is encouraging,” he said.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said the Fijian Government had embarked on its own comprehensive set of political and socioeconomic reforms, which were bearing fruit.
“The aim is to ensure sustainability and consistency of policy in order to make a difference to the lives of ordinary Fijians,” he said.

Brief on Fiji’s progress
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum briefed his counterpart on Fiji’s path to democracy, underscoring the assent to Fiji’s new Constitution on September 7 and the preparations for the up-coming election, to be held by the end of September.
The Minister from Mauritius conveyed his congratulations to the Fijian Government for the “substantial and progressive” steps taken to develop Fiji, which would culminate in democratic elections that will take place this year.
The meeting ended with both Ministers agreeing to finalise the memorandum of understanding on investment co-operation and to develop bilateral relations further.

Starwood general manager Shane Cunnings (left) and J Kevi group (Fiji) chief executive Narendra Reddy during the launching of its new products at Denarau Golf and Racquet Club on Tuesday night. Photo: WAISEA NASOKIA

By SHEIK DEAN

J.Kevi Group (Fiji) of Nadi launched a range of Fijian Made products at the Denarau Golf & Racquet Club in Nadi on Tuesday night.
These included stainless steel soap holders, toilet paper holders, door handles and towel hangers.
The Fijian Made products will be aimed for the hotel industry due to the heavy usage and the durability of stainless steel.
Also during the launch the company showcased its new imported EZGO Golf carts and golf course maintenance equipments.
Group chairman Narendra Reddy said running a business is a risk but that should never stop you.
“We thank ANZ Bank and Starwood Hotels in having the confidence in us which has become stronger over the years,” Mr Reddy said.
“Our relationship with Starwood Hotels has been successful with 65 EZGO golf carts purchased and quite well maintained by us.”
He said the company is now one of the largest golf cart suppliers in Fiji and sells one of the best golf carts used by golfers around the world.
“We entered the golf industry in 1995 and is one of the demanding industry in Fiji,’’ said Mr Reddy.
Starwood Fiji general manager Shane Cunnings said the EZGO golf carts has served it well over the years.
“We are a large company in Fiji and our success has been good due to the people and the companies we surround ourselves with,” Mr Cunnings said.
He added that ideas had been there and due to the support of J.Kevi, their ideas have been successful.
J Kevi started back in 1981 and has now expanded into sectors such as construction, refrigeration, air conditioning, engineering as well as the Golf industry.

Cabinet has approved the Offshore Fisheries Management (Amendment) Decree 2014. The Amendment Decree shall come into force on the date of its publication in the gazette.
Cabinet based its decision on a submission by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forest, Rural Maritime Development and National Disaster Management, Lieutenant-Colonel Inia Seruiratu.
The Minister said that the Amendment Decree increases the penalties for illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
“The high deterrent penalties are to protect our fisheries waters, safeguarding us from being a target for IUU fishing and allowing Fiji to be an exemplary custodian of its fisheries.”
Furthermore the Decree also amends the Principal Decree by inserting changes to various sections for the purpose of clarity.
Also it assist the Department of Fisheries in carrying out its functions and responsibilities effectively. — MINFO NEWS

By SHEIK DEAN

Zubeda Khanda of Suva could not believe her luck after the news of winning a brand new Suzuki Alto vehicle in the Fonterra, Punjas ‘Win with Anchor & Chesdale’ competition was conveyed to her.
The competition started in November last year and was drawn yesterday by Commissioner Western Joeli Cawaki at the office of Punja and Sons Ltd in Navutu Lautoka.
“I have participated in many competitions and promotions but this was my first major win,’’ said the elated winner Mrs Khanda.
The 70-year-old said she will cherish this major win and thanked Punja and Sons Ltd.
“I had only bought a small packet of the Anchor flavoured milk and in return I won a car. This car will ease off my transportation needs.
“This is a very happy moment and we owned a car previously, however we sold it but luck has given us a car.
The competition was drawn under the supervision of Police.

Outrigger on the Lagoon Fiji on the Coral Coast ranked Best Family Resort in Australia and the South Pacific and number 14 out of 25 Best Family resorts in the World.

Outrigger on the Lagoon ∙ Fiji has been named number one family resort in Australia and the South Pacific in Trip Advisor’s 2014 Travellers’ Choice Awards.
The resort, on the Coral Coast, has also been ranked among the top 25 best family resorts in the world by the on-line travel site, being placed fourteenth.
Other resorts to make the top 25 included the Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheik in Egypt, Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai, Club Med Ixtapa Pacific in Mexico and Cavallino Bianco Spa Hotel in Ortisei, Italy.
Outrigger on the Lagoon ∙ Fiji general manager Peter Hopgood GM said the award recognised the resort’s wide ranging appeal.
“Our Meimei nanny service, kids clubs and teens programme combined with our Talei butler service and adults -only zones such as our new Vahavu pool, swim-up bar and bistro, fine dining restaurant and day spa have been designed to satisfy the needs and desires of both families and couples,” he said.
Mr Hopgood said Trip Advisor had summed up its reviews of Outrigger with a quote from a guest.
The guest said: “…my family has come away with memories to last a lifetime! The friendliness and welcoming from staff was superb. My two girls were sad to leave.”
“This is not only a great result for Outrigger on the Lagoon ∙ Fiji but for Fiji as a whole as it highlights its standing as a leading international tourist destination,” Mr Hopgood said.
Outrigger on the Lagoon ∙ Fiji is part of the Outrigger Enterprises Group, a 66 year-old Hawaii-based family hospitality company. It has 45 properties trading or under development in eight countries.

— OUTRIGGER ON
THE LAGOON FIJI

Bill Gates’ idyllic honeymoon spot on Wakaya Island on auction

New York: The honeymoon destination of Bill Gates and wife Melinda will be auctioned to the highest bidder starting on February 7.
Lawedua has been a destination for Jim Carrey, Celine Dion and Michelle Pfeiffer among others, and it offers gorgeous views of the Koro Sea.
Concierge Auctions of New York will host the sale of this very exclusive private estate.
The property boasts access to a private white sandy beach and proximity to the Wakaya Club and Spa, the perfect pick for those who love Five-Star dining.
Lawedua will be auctioned in two parcels (one currently listed for $12.99M and the other for $6.99M) but can potentially be purchased as a pair.
“This is one of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s like your own island paradise; a truly serene sanctuary,” stated the seller, Mindy Stearns.
“Words and pictures cannot describe what you feel when you are in Wakaya. This home has been a part of our family for years. It is where we fell in love, had our honeymoon, and baptized our children. It is a piece of heaven on Earth.”
— justluxe.com

The Director Executive of International Trade Centre (ITC), Arancha Gonzalez, has indicated that they see potential and opportunities in working with the Fijian Government.
The possibility of ITC partnering with the Fijian Government so that ITC programmes and projects could bring more benefit to Fijians, was discussed during a bilateral meeting between the Attorney-General and Minister for Industry and Trade, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, and Ms Gonzalez, held yesterday in Bangalore, India.
The Attorney-General emphasised to Ms Gonzalez that given the reforms undertaken by the Bainimarama Government.
“Accordingly ITC needs to collaborate closely with Government to ensure that there is alignment and synergy with these policies so that tangible results based on sustainability are realised. Such an approach will result in growth and benefits for the grassroots Fijian – those in most need.
“We are glad that ITC has agreed to partner with the Fijian Government and work through the Ministry of Industry and Trade, for example to provide assistance in the co-operatives sector,” Mr Sayed Khaiyum said.
“Additionally the ITC has agreed to provide assistance through the NCSMED for the development of small and micro enterprises – through provision of assistance development of new products, developing and access new markets, and training to the small and micro businesses.”
Upon Fiji’s request, ITC has also agreed to assist in the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement that was agreed to by the WTO Leaders in Bali, Indonesia.
“This co-operation between Fiji and ITC will create opportunities not only for the growth of the SME and Co-operative sector in Fiji, but also for Fijian products and services in the international market,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.
– MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY AND TRADE