By RACHNA LAL
In a bid to discuss diary industry reform progress, the Permanent Secretary for Industry and Trade, Shaheen Ali, this week met the chief executive of Fiji Dairy Limited, Vishwa Sharma.
Mr Ali recognised Fiji Dairy’s commitment to the Government and recognised efforts in the past 11 months.
“Fiji Dairy has not only taken steps to improve the quality of the milk supplied to the market, but also has provided infrastructure and other services to enable more farmers to supply milk in greater volume,” he said.
The Bainimarama Government implemented reforms to revitalise the dairy industry and to ensure self-sufficiency in dairy production and sustained livelihood for dairy farmers.
This was done by removing corruption and introducing commercial practices to boost productivity and efficiency in this vital Industry.
Southern Cross Foods Limited became the new owners of Fiji Dairy in August last year.
Response and plans ahead
Mr Sharma said with the opening of the Ba chilling centre, 47 farmers are contributing approximately 4.6 per cent towards the national milk pool and approximately $350,000 has been injected into the Ba commerce.
He said the second chilling centre will be operational in Lautoka in the next few months, which will service the Lautoka and Sabeto farmers.
“Fiji Diary’s future plans include the expansion of its operation and diversifying in production of bottled fresh milk and other dairy-related products,” Mr Sharma said.
Growth potential
Mr Ali acknowledged Fiji Diary’s effort, which currently supplies 86 per cent of the total liquid milk demand of the Fijian market.
He noted there is potential for growth and to make Fiji self-sufficient and secure in terms of its milk and dairy needs.
Mr Ali said there are growing opportunities in the regional market to export Fijian liquid and powdered milk.
“However, in order to take advantage of these opportunities, there is need for a constant supply of milk,” he said.
Fiji Dairy Limited chief executive Vishwa Sharma (second from left) with the Permanent Secretary for Industry and Trade, Shaheen Ali (Third from left).