Fiji’s national superannuation fund aims to diversify agriculture after consultations with its seven resorts and hotels. Fiji National Provident Fund has called for expressions of interest for a joint venture partner in a hydroponic farm.
It followed an assessment of local sourcing needs in consultation with stakeholders. In 2017, hotels and resorts in Fiji’s main tourism areas spent FJ $74.4 million on the procurement of fresh produce.
Of this, 52 percent, or more than FJ $38.5 million (US $18.8 million), was spent on imported items. Vegetables, fruits, and herbs totaled over $16 million for the tourism sector.
Meanwhile, the superannuation fund called on qualified management service providers for the venture. Joe’s Farm Produce, a prominent hydroponic farm owned and operated by leading local businessman Michael Joe, did not comment when contacted by SunBiz.
Source: Fijisun
