National Trade Policy Framework previewed

From left: Customs Brokers and Forwarders Council of Fiji chairman Vinesh Chandra, Permanent Secretary for Industry and Trade Shaheen Ali, Fiji Ports Corporation Limited chief executive Vajira Piyasena and Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority chief executive Jitoko Tikolevu at the annual general meeting yesterday. Photo: Paulini Ratulailai

Fiji’s booming market
Fiji is booming on the trade front, as well as expanding into new markets and reducing dependence on a limited number of trading partners.
The Bainimarama Government has undertaken reforms that have ignited a period of economic growth for Fiji which is one of the best economic growth cycles since Independence.
This persistent growth is evidence of the resilience of the Fijian economy, leaving behind the gloom of the Global Financial Crisis of 2008 and enduring through the natural disasters of 2009 and 2011.
Fiji provides global value addition for both goods and services – given its central location, developed transport links and skilled labour force.
The Bainimarama Government’s reforms have helped increase the level of investment.
Fuelled mainly by the private sector, it is reaching historical highs of 29 percent of Gross Domestic Product last year.
“The Fijian government is deeply committed to capital spending to support the economy and reduce the cost of doing business.”
He further stressed that now was the time for the private sector to capitalise on the reforms undertaken by Bainimarama Government.
Council chairman Vinesh Chandra noted the AGM was a requirement every year.
The council is preparing for its annivesary celebration to be held later in the year may be after elections or early next year.

Launch of National Trade Policy
In the coming months, Government plans to launch the National Trade Policy Framework.
It is a new document providing the guidelines for Fiji’s collaborative and inclusive approach to trade.
The underlying vision of this document is to advance Fiji’s role as the “Hub of the Pacific”, building a larger, more efficient internationally competitive Fijian economy.
The Framework is a single reference point for all stakeholders making the journey on Fiji’s roadmap towards a modern and inclusive trade policy.
It promotes expansion, industrial growth, domestic and foreign investment and general improvement in the business environment for private sector.
In developing the framework, the Ministry of Industry and Trade adopted a bottom-up approach and undertook extensive consultations with all key stakeholders, including its trade facilitation partners.
Some of the members of the council were part of the consultation work.
According to the council’s national secretary Ronald Dass they want to be part of the consultation because they play a major role in the facilitation of trade.
Mr Ali stressed that moving forward, to fully succeed in facilitating trade, paying attention to them the stakeholders was critical.
“We understand that there are issues that not only pose a challenge to you, but pose a challenge at a national level,” he said
“At the same time, the Fijian Government is working to improve the infrastructure, productivity and capacity of our seaports and wharfs.
“We will also address the layers of fees and charges that can also pose an impediment to trade.”
The council has increased its membership fees for the year and registration fees for new members as well.
Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

MARAIA VULA
SUVA
The first lots of Housing Authority of Fiji’s Wainibuku Subdivision are expected to be ready for sale in two months.
Acting chief executive, Jagdish Prasad, said development at the sub-division was progressing well despite adverse weather conditions slightly delaying the delivery of lots.
“The survey plans by the Computing Office of the Director of Lands, required for Wainibuku are flowing smoothly and we anticipate the first 100 lots will be available for sale in September,” Mr Prasad said.
“These lots are designed for our target markets which are the low to middle income earners whose annual household income is up to $50,000 per annum.
“Housing Authority is the largest land and housing developer in Fiji, therefore a lot of work must be done before the lots can be ready to be sold.”
Mr Prasad said one of the most important works was including the public utility infrastructure into their lots.
“That means during the development of any sub-division, we also include the water, sewer, road and electricity,” he said.
“This is so when we sell the lots, all these services are included in the total package. That is why it takes time.”
Meanwhile, Mr Prasad said depending on size, the price of the lots would range from $30,000. The bigger the lot the higher the price, or the smaller the lot size the less it will cost.
The remaining 163 lots are expected to be ready in late November.
The Authority has registered 2765 customers in its database who have shown interest in this sub-division.
In view of this demand, lots will be sold strictly to first-time home-owners.
Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

The Guardian
Rupert Murdoch says business has a right to speak out on public policy matters, even on issues not directly related to their area of operation.
“Business is just as entitled to express its opinion as unions are,” the News Corporation executive chairman told the B20 summit of business leaders in Sydney, Australia.
“The trouble, I find, is usually unions represent hundreds of thousands of voters whereas a business represents just one.”
Mr Murdoch said business had a role to play in shaping public policy in a democracy.
“If we feel we have a contribution to make to the debate we should do so. Certainly my newspapers do so every day and we far from regularly win the argument.
“It’s very important that, if we live in a democracy, with real entrepreneurship, you’ve got to have a world of ideas to debate.”
Mr Murdoch said businesses should be involved in shaping public policy and also suggested governments needed to loosen constraints on business.
“You should be leaving the public, by the normal processes of demand, to provide business with the opportunities to get on with life and get the governments to take a back seat,” Mr Murdoch said.

Too much red tape
Mr Murdoch, who was part of a panel discussion on the role of business in shaping public policy, said he held a lifelong belief in free markets and strong libertarian ideals.
“For businesses large and small there’s simply too much red tape and too many self-serving politicians stifling economic growth and entrepreneurialism,” he said.
Mr Murdoch also defended companies which have been criticised by the US government for relocating to lower corporate-taxing countries.

Lower-taxing countries
US treasury secretary Jacob Lew called for an end to the practice of “inversion” where companies move their headquarters to lower-taxing countries such as Ireland, naming it a matter of “economic patriotism”.
Relatively high corporate tax rates are also an issue for Australia in competing to attract businesses against lower-taxing neighbours such as Singapore.
Mr Murdoch said criticising companies was avoiding a serious debate about tax reform.
“Do we really expect companies to voluntarily bring overseas profits back to be taxed at 35 to 40 per cent in the United States when the corporate tax rate in Ireland is 12.5 per cent?” Mr Murdoch said.
“This is not the way to achieve economic growth.”
Feedback: rachnal@fijisun.com.fj

SHEIK DEAN
NADI

Works at Resort Relax Fiji opposite Sonaisali Island in Nacovi, Nadi. Photo: SHEIK DEAN

Navneel Sharma, owner of STI, who won in three different award categories of the car show. Photo: PAULINI RATULAILAI

The LB Masters and Cheaper Rentals-sponsored Fiji Cars’ car show held the past Sunday was much bigger and better, said president, Raizal Haniff.
Mr Haniff said it was encouraging to see hundreds of people turning up to the event showing their interest in the car show.
“There were 45 cars, not only from Suva but the West too, which participated and to us, this is a very big number,” he said.
“Some cars that came to the show, I have not seen on the road which shows that these cars meant a lot to its owners.
“It is not always about winning because in the car show, you are actually showing your car to the public and in our eyes, everybody is a winner.
Based on the success of this car show, Mr Hannif confirmed Fiji Cars now has plans for another one to be held before the end of this year.
Fiji Cars will host its quarter mile drags in Pacific Harbour on August 10.

The urge to win
Spending $5000 on his car accessories was worth it, said 24-year-old Navneel Sharma, who won three of the award categories for his vehicle registered STI.
Mr Sharma won the ‘Best dressed’, ‘Best presentation’ and ‘Best engine bay’ categories.
Mr Sharma said he bought his car last month and only had three weeks to prepare and ended up winning three categories during the car show on Sunday.
“The money I spent for my car was worth it and I am very happy after hearing of my wins,” he said.
“I am into cars and I also import cars; this win is a very big boost for me.”
“The last time I took part in the car show was three or four years ago and I am happy that I decided to take part again.”
Feedback: rachnal@fijisun.com.fj

Category winners
Best Bike – Hyaboza ownd by Rajat Maharaj
Best SUV – owned by Abdul Rahim
Best Sound Setup – Raynil Pal (FZ.057)
Sound off – Sandeep Prakash (Blax)
Peoples Choice – Raynil Pal (FZ.057)
Best UTE – Ron Lal (HG.578)
Best Engine Bay – Navneel Sharma (STI)
Presidents Award – Imtiaz Ali (KIPH8N)
Best Interior – Vicky Nath (BT.070)
Best Drag Car – Vicky Nath (1BAD7)
Best Golden Oldie – OldGold ( Errol)
Best Restoration – AL 150
Best Exterior – Richie Lal (EV.872)
Best Presentation – Navneel Sharma (STI)
Best Dressed – Navneel Sharma (STI)
Best Sports – Rahul Maharaj (INOCNT)
Best Family Car – Melvin (mi007)

FIJI NATIONAL PROVIDENT FUND

A team from the Fiji National Provident Fund travelled to Kadavu last week in its aim to create awareness among villagers especially farmers on becoming voluntary members of the fund.
The fund felt self- employed and entrepreneurs, especially Kava farmers on Kadavu, have the potential to become voluntary members and to enjoy the benefits that FNPF offers.
The team visited 15 villages, 8 schools and two health centres and also carried out village inspections, talanoa sessions and assisted villagers with their joint FNPF/FIRCA card applications.
FNPF chief executive Aisake Taito said there was a good turnout and the team received positive responses from villagers on the services rendered to them.
He said despite the geographical and economic challenges faced by the villagers to make it to where their staff were based, the team collected about 30 Voluntary Membership applications.
“This number could have been more if villages were not so remotely located,” he said.
“But above all, we have to accept that entrepreneurs are continuously faced with many challenges and the fund is working towards assisting members the best possible ways.”
Despite the challenges, Mr Taito said farmers were still keen to join as voluntary members.
“They are now more aware about the benefits of becoming members of the fund and ways they could take advantage of these benefits to help their families,” he said.
Mr Taito said the awareness drive in Kadavu was crucial as it ensures that opportunities were also given to everyone who wished to become members of the fund.
“You can become a member of FNPF if you’re self-employed or a student, from the age of 16,” he said.
“As a voluntary member, you would be able to enjoy the multiple benefits that FNPF offers including a high interest rate in the country.”
Feedback: rachnal@fijisun.com.fj

Tourism Fiji

Tourism Fiji has appointed Ruth Daly as its new Regional Director North America who commenced work yesterday.
Ms Daly brings over 20 years of experience in the travel industry to Tourism Fiji, with an emphasis on product development and marketing of long haul destinations to North Americans.
In welcoming Ms Daly to the role, Tourism Fiji acting chief executive, Ken Freer, said the appointment reflected the importance of the North American market to tourism in Fiji.
“Ruth’s extensive South Pacific experience in the North American market will be of great benefit to Tourism Fiji and the entire Fijian industry,” he said.
“We are confident Ruth will effectively assist us in continuing to drive growth and enhancing Fiji’s reputation in these important markets with her proven track record in the travel industry.”
Most recently, Ms Daly has served as National Trade Marketing Manager for the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Her previous positions have focused on travel to the South Pacific and include roles with Stella Travel Services, Qantas Vacations, Australia Pacific Tours and Contiki Holidays.
Mr Freer said: “Ruth first visited Fiji in 1993 and the strength of her existing relationships with our industry partners will enable her to hit the ground running when she commences as Regional Director at the end of July.”
Ms Daly said she was delighted to be representing Fiji and making a contribution at a very exciting time with Tourism Fiji’s new marketing initiatives and branding.
“As a regular visitor to Fiji for over 20 years, Fiji holds a special place my heart and is a destination held in very high regard in North America,” Ms Daly said.
“The warmth of the people, the amazing culture and the vast array of experiences on offer make this the dream destination and one I’m very proud to represent.
“I very much look forward to sharing everything Fiji has to offer with the North American travel trade and travelling public.”
Feedback: rachnal@fijisun.com.fj

Fiji Sun General Manager Advertising, Ahara Khan(right) and Carpenters Fiji Director Retail and Marketing Kunaseelan Sabaratnam sealing the deal yesterday. Photo: ALFONSA WAYAP

The Fiji Sun Classified Advertising Office is soon moving to the big, busy MHCC shopping, dining and entertainment complex in downtown Suva.
From 1st August it will shift from its present Waimanu Road site to MHCC in the heart of the downtown area.
Fiji Sun General Manager Advertising Ahara Khan said that means not just more convenience for customers but also more hours for customers to place their advertisements.
The specially designed Fiji Sun Classifieds centre at MHCC will be open seven days a week 9am to 9pm in the MH Supermarket area.
Ms Khan said: “We’re excited about this. MHCC has become such a popular place to be in the heart of the city. It makes it so much easier for our many customers.”
Carpenters Retail and Marketing director Kunaseelan Sabaratnam welcomed the signing of the agreement on this. He said Carpenters and Fiji Sun have been good and longstanding partners. This further enhanced this.
“We support each other as Fiji Sun is now the number one newspaper. We are definitely glad to accept them with open arms at our supermarket,” Mr Sabaratnam said.

Growth
It continues the remarkable growth of MHCC.
Mr Sabaratnam said at the moment there are no spaces available at MHCC but there are still enquiries coming in for spaces.
There will also be a new money exchange outlet that will set up where the stage used to be located, he said.
He said they have a lot of enquiries and especially for more food and beverage outlets.
“Looking at the growth in MHCC, we have no choice but to expand to one or two floors,” he said.
Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

A locomotive carrying sugarcane to the Lautoka Mill for processing. Photo: WAISEA NASOKIA

Sugarcane growers in Fiji have welcomed Government’s decision for provisional application of the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union.
The Economic Partnership Agreement provides for free access into the European Union.
Fiji’s main exports to the EU are raw cane sugar, other agricultural products and fish.
Sugar Cane Growers Council chief executive, Sundresh Chetty, said the move will help maintain favourable market access on sugar exports.
“On behalf of the growers, we would like to show our gratitude towards the government for this,” Mr Chetty said.
“This is a very positive decision to maintain confidence levels of the growers in the sugar industry and its sustainability.
“This will mean that we will continue to trade with the European Union with duty free access.”
Mr Chetty said with the current industry reforms in place by the government and stakeholders support, there is no doubt growing confidence in the sugar industry now.
“We are optimistic that growers will invest more in their farms as their shares of proceeds grow bigger,” he said.
He said this has been evident in the increased cane payment to the farmers over the past two years.
“We would like to see this agreement is strengthened for the future of the industry,” he said.
“I would like to urge to the farmers to be composed and have faith in the industry given the current reforms taking place for sustainability,” Mr Chetty said.
He also urged farmers to take advantage of the favourable weather conditions to get as much cane to the mills as possible.
Mr Chetty said growers are optimistic about the 2014 harvesting season and if there were issues, he is available to look into these and support in any way possible.
Feedback: rachnal@fijisun.com.fj

farisha ahmed
suva

SODELPA does not condone derogatory racial comments on social media, its media manager Sainiana Radrodro says.
Mrs Radrodro was commenting on exchanges on the SODELPA (Social Democratic Liberal Party) Facebook page involving SODELPA supporters and those of other parties.
She said what was posted on social media sites by their supporters was beyond their control.
Mrs Radrodro said, “our officials do not condone racial derogatory comments.
“Facebook … people go there to express their frustration, so we cannot control what they say.”
She said the comments might have been made by SODELPA supporters, but in general, no one could control what was on Facebook because it was a free site and did not get edited as in mainstream media.
“We respect what other races have contributed,” Mrs Radrodro said.
“We all have equal rights and they have a right to call Fiji their home.”
She said people were still frightened to speak out in the media so they went to Facebook and other social media sites to take out their frustration.
She said it was something no one could control since everyone had a freedom to speak and “we have to accept it”.
“We are trying to bring a common understanding between our supporters to respect other races and see how much they have contributed and as well as suffered because of all the coups.”
“All we are asking is respect and recognition for indigenous people for what belongs to us, but we would not ask for what is not ours.”
She said it was unfortunate that such remarks were being made.
“But we have to see that Fiji is big enough for everyone and we wish to make this understandable to our supporters to respect everyone,” Mrs Radrodro said.
Feedback: farisha.ahmed@fijisun.com.fj

FIJI DEVELOPMENT BANK
SUVA
The Fiji Development Bank received a cheque of $50,890.23 on 30 June from the National Training & Productivity Centre under the Centre’s Levy and Grants Scheme for 2013.
The grant was a milestone achievement for the bank as it is the highest claim ever received.
This also highlighted the management and implementation of the Bank’s Training Plan for the year.
FDB Human Resources and Training general manager, Uraia Rasake said: “It is just a matter of proper planning and maximising the training opportunities that are available.
Centre directorKamlesh Prakash commended the bank and especially the staff of the HR and Training division for the results it achieved.
In addition he also commended the systematic approach to training that enabled staff at all levels to enhance their skills and improve their performance.
What is the Scheme about?
The Levy and Grants Scheme is an incentive-based scheme for training in the country.
Under this scheme, grants are paid for trainings from a pool of funds which is a collection of individual employer levies.
The Bank is a Method “A” Company under this Scheme. Being under this Scheme, the Bank has access to a wider range of incentives to encourage trainings through various modes.
The Bank’s Human Resources & Training Department recorded 86.34 per cent grant rating for the year 2013, a staggering 21 per cent increase from 2012.
Feedback: rachnal@fijisun.com.fj

Times of india
Efforts to assuage Indian concerns about a landmark global trade pact appear to have failed sources involved in the discussions said, setting off a frantic rush to win its support before a Thursday deadline.
India is the most prominent of a group of developing nations angry with rich countries for failing to address their concerns about a deal on trade facilitation struck by World Trade Organisatiom member states in Bali, Indonesia, last year.
Proponents believe the deal could add $1 trillion to global gross domestic product and 21 million jobs by slashing red tape and streamlining customs, eliminating delays at the border that can often cost more than tariffs themselves.
A failure could prove disastrous for the moribund World Trade Organization (WTO) and the system of global free trade deals it underpins.
As late as Sunday, hopes were high that publicly addressing Indian concerns during a G20 trade ministers meeting in Sydney would give it a face-saving path towards reaffirming its assent before the July 31 deadline.
In principle, the WTO could pass the agreement on the basis of a qualified majority, but experts say that would be unprecedented and virtually impossible in an organisation that operates on consensus.
rachnal@fijisun.com.fj

MARAIA VULA
SUVA

Eseta Nadakuitavuki (left) and Dr Jiko Luveni at the Grand Pacific Hotel yesterday.

RANOBA BAOA
SUVA
Paying for your Fiji Television Limited’ Sky Pacific service will now be made easier through Vodafone Fiji’s M-Paisa billing service.
Yesterday, an agreement was signed at the Vodafone headquarters on Princes Road that would see customers make real-time payments and immediate approvals through M-Paisa.
Fiji TV chief executive, Tevita Gonelevu said this was not only convenient for subscribers who live far from the city but for the everyday busy subscriber.
“By partnering with Vodafone, we are making the payment of Sky bills easier and more convenient for our existing customers,” Mr Gonelevu said of the 30,000 customers they have currently.
“At the same time, it opens up a whole new opportunity for us to tap into the previously inaccessible customer base particularly in rural areas and islands.”
M-PAiSA will certainly overcome this hurdle for a lot of our clients, Mr Gonelevu said.
“This convenient and secure payment option through the mobile phone now offers sky subscribers to make their monthly payments without the need to visit our offices.”
Head of Sky Pacific, Nitesh Lal said: “Mobile payment option is fast becoming an accepted mode of payment globally and we are pleased to offer this added payment option to our customers.”
Vodafone head of e-Commerce and Corporate Affairs, Shailendra Prasad said this was part of the mobile company’s commitment in value-adding its services.
“We are really pleased to partner Fiji TV to open this convenient and remote payment option to sky subscribers and also provide a value added service to our customers”, Mr Prasad said.
Sky Pacific subscription payment is the latest addition to already 40 corporate partners the Vodafone has including Water Authority of Fiji and Fiji Electricity Authority.
“More businesses are realizing the potential benefits of mobile payments as a safe, convenient and cost effective mode of payment which is as good as receiving cash payment over the counter without the need to handle any cash.”

Pay per view
Mr Shailendra added they’ll also include Sky Pacific’s Pay Per View option soon. For a month, the transaction is free of charge but following that, a fee of 50 cents per transaction will apply.
Vodafone is also looking at setting a programme that would enable corporate organisations to become agents and where they can assist employees use the M-Paisa billing service.
Vodafone, chief marketing officer, Sanjeewa Perera said they would be introducing this soon but first get organisations and employees on board and see how best this can be done.
Feedback: ranobab@fijisun.com.fj

RANOBA BAOA
SUVA

The Trade Policy Framework will contribute to the fulfillment of Government’s vision of a ‘Better Fiji for All’ and establish Fiji as the international hub for trading in the region.
These were key remarks by Permanent Secretary for Industry and Trade, Shaheen Ali at the Trade Policy Framework Validation Workshop yesterday at Holiday Inn Suva.
“It will determine how to connect all the dots and address our production capacity, supply-side constraints, linkages to markets, with the ultimate objective of enhancing Fiji’s position in global trade,” Mr Ali said of the framework’s outcome.
The Trade Policy Framework, he said, would capitalise on positive reforms and growth Government had undertaken in recent years with unprecedented economic growth since post-independence.
This is through the provision of a long-term plan that will ensure the continuation of coordination and consistency of policies that improve the general business environment and enables trade.
“We need to realise that we are a team, not individual agencies working in isolation,” Mr Ali told participants who will oversee the draft of the framework.
“We need to seize the opportunity to form effective public-private partnerships, and together contribute to a shared vision.”
He re-emphasised the objective of the framework which was to position Fiji as an internationally competitive economy serving as the Hub of the Pacific.
“The purpose of the framework is to ensure continuation of coordinated and consistent approach in our national development agenda.
“Also to better maximize development gains, by enhancing Fijian industries, investment, exports of goods and services, as well as advance Fiji’s interest in international trade negotiations.”
Yesterday, the workshop was held behind closed doors and is understood that consultant, Professor Robert Scollay would fine tune the framework.

Background
The work on the Trade Policy Framework began in July the past year, with a familiarisation workshop held in Suva followed by a number of other workshops in the same year.
Feedback: ranobab@fijisun.com.fj

RANOBA BAOa
SUVA

Mindpearl is continuing growth not just in Fiji but globally.
On Wednesday night, the global process outsourcing operations, unveiled its new look in a bid to better reflect its business, people and organisations it represents.
The Fiji unveiling was done at Damodar Event Cinemas on Grantham Road with over 350 staff present with a new slogan – Our People, Your Brand.
Mindpearl Fiji general manager, Mark Mahoney, said the rebranding was a historic one and yet another significant chapter for the company.
“We’ve just had our 15th birthday and we thought it was time to reinvent ourselves and change the image we serve over the years to something more befitting our business has evolved into,” he said.
“We’re now a lot broader in the businesses we look after. We were originally a specialist in the airlines industry and we still have that featuring heavily in our DNA.”
“Now we’ve more evolved into industries such as the white management industry, telecommunications industry, the insurance industry with our customers that we serve and the retail industry as well.
“That embodies our fabulous people that come to work every day and represent our customers with distinction.”
What does the rebranding mean for Fiji, when asked?
Mr Mahoney said: “For Fiji it’s very exciting. Fiji has just won the Offershoring Destination of the Year through the European Outsourcing Awards.
“This is a perfect timing and a great plat forming to launch this new branding whilst we’ve got some limelight on the business and on the industry.”
Mr Mahoney said Fiji made up a very large component of their business and is their future going forward.
“We’re just looking forward to living the new brand and take the identity forward of Our People , Your Brand of Mindpearl into the future and for Fiji,” he said.

Rebranding process
The rebranding has finalised so far two of the four stages of the process.
“We’re now at Stage 3 which is grand unveiling internally. The large sign in our Kalabu building on Kalabu Tax Free Zone will change,” Mr Mahoney said.
“Our reception signage changes, all of the signage around of our building changes.”
Next Monday is the external launch. In this, things like website content, emailing outlook, letterheads, and business cards changes will be effective, he added.
Feedback: ranobab@fijisun.com.fj

HOUSING AUTHORITY

The sale of Housing Authority’s Tacirua East Sub-division Phase 3A land has commenced.
Acting chief executive, Jagdish Prasad, said the authority would now sell lots from its various sub-divisions under development as housing packages.
Customers would also have the opportunity to access Government’s Housing Assistance Grant.
“We are urging customers who will be allotted these lots to take up our housing loan packages. This means they can buy the land and build their homes immediately,” he said.
“This is how Housing Authority is assisting its target group of those earning $50,000 per annum and below towards realising the Constitutional right to housing under Section 35.
“At the same time, customers are able to access Housing Assistance Grant of $10,000.”
In the meantime, Mr Prasad said the authority wanted to ensure fairness and transparency would prevail which is the reason they were allocating lots to those who had already registered their interest.
“We are matching this information to the lots. So, for example, if a customer had applied for a lot in Tacirua in 2012 and a different customer applied in 2006, the first priority will be given to the one who had applied earlier,” he said.
“But other factors will also be taken into consideration such as income, whether they are first-home owners, and their eligibility for a land and house package.”
Therefore, Mr Prasad urged customers whose information has changed like contact details, salary and others, to inform the authority to have their data updated.
“This will allow the authority to reach them easily otherwise they can lose out on the opportunity to own a home,” he explained.
Meanwhile, development works for Phase 1A at Tacirua is almost nearing completion.
These would be available for sale by the end of September with 459 lots.
Also the first 100 lots from the Authority’s Wainibuku Sub-division will soon be available after approval of the survey plans by the Lands Department.
Feedback: rachnal@fijisun.com.fj

MINFO NEWS

The Fijian Government’s effort in revitalising the banana industry should see a boost following the recent visit of a banana exporter and expert, Dr Fabio Regis de Albuquerque.
Minister of Agriculture, Lieutenant-Colonel Inia Seruiratu, met with Dr Fabio, to discuss ways of increasing the production of banana in the country.
Dr Fabio said: “We work with certain plants and harvest fruit quality, free of chemical residues with respect to nature and to men.
He said Fiji has very rich soil for banana planting and has the potential to supply to markets around the region.

JON FINGAS
ENGADGET

It looks like you won’t have to wait long at all to check out Google’s visually rich Play Store revamp-it’s rolling out now.
The refresh doesn’t appear any different on the surface, but a quick dive shows very different product pages that are clearly inspired by the company’s multi-layered Material Design philosophy.
Cover art plays a much larger role, and details like rating overviews and genres have been moved into easy-to-read icons. You might not like everything about the new storefront-there’s considerably more scrolling involved, for one thing.
On the whole, though, it’s both prettier and easier to understand at a glance.
The revamp should reach your device within days, but Android Police has an installer if you just can’t wait to see what’s new.

The ATR 42-600 for Fiji Link being assembled at the ATR factory in Toulouse, France. Photo: ATR

Domestic airline travellers can soon expect yet another brand new plane from Fiji Link.
Fiji Link’s ATR 42-600 aircraft will be received in late August and will be second new aircraft this year for the recently rebranded subsidiary of Fiji Airways.
The aircraft has been acquired under a Finance Lease.
The 48-seater aircraft will be operated between Suva, Nadi and Labasa.
Fiji Airways Group managing director/chief executive, Stefan Pichler, said the second ATR-42 is the next step in the current fleet upgrade work being undertaken for Fiji Link.
“We have a robust plan to modernise the Fiji Link fleet to more efficiently serve the domestic market as well as the South Pacific regional flying the carrier does on behalf of Fiji Airways,” he said.
“This incoming 600-series ATR 42 is a step-up from the current 500-series that Fiji Link operates.”
Following the arrival of this brand new aircraft along with another ATR 72-600 for Fiji Link in December, the two current ATR 42-500s will exit the fleet.
Mr Pichler said so overall, they will significantly increase Fiji Link capacity this year with state-of-the-art new ATR aircraft.
The ATR 42-600 has considerably more cocktail and other enhancements, including higher efficiency and a lower fuel burn compared to the ATR 42-500s.
“Our goal is to keep reducing fuel costs as well as well our carbon footprint by looking for more efficient aircraft where possible,” he said.
“The ATR 42-600 will be an important acquisition for us in that respect, as the older ATR 42-500s exit the fleet.”
The ATR fleet for Fiji Link are all leased from aircraft lessors.
Feedback: rachnal@fijisun.com.fj