Value addition is indeed a crucial strategy for farmers who want to stay competitive in today's evolving agricultural markets.

These were the sentiments shared by the Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu when meeting today with executive members of New Valley Processors (Fiji) Pte Ltd, which is a newly established agri-processing and export company based in Sabeto, Nadi.

“I must commend your company for taking that leap of faith and moving in a totally new direction. I hope that with the support rendered, you will be able to thrive in the coming years,” said Hon. Rayalu.

Chief Executive Officer for the company, Navi Tuivuniwai said while officially registered recently, the company has been operating since 2012, initially as a farmer cluster group built on an aggregation model.

“Its early focus was on collecting produce from farmers and supplying major processors and exporters to meet market demand,” he explained.

“In 2023, New Valley made a strategic shift, transitioning into a fully-fledged export business. The company is now focused on moving beyond traditional bulk packaging and export of fresh and frozen produce. Its long-term vision is to create more value onshore, right here in Fiji, through innovative processing and product development.”

“We extend our sincere appreciation to the Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Hon. Rayalu, for his continued support. The ministry has played a crucial role at a pivotal time in the company’s journey—recognizing our vision and providing not only encouragement but also vital financial assistance,” he added.

“Today, we were honoured by the Minister’s unannounced visit to our processing facility. Despite receiving only a short notice of his arrival, we were deeply encouraged to see him visit in person, accompanied by his senior management team from the Western Division. This is a true example of leadership in action—engaging directly with stakeholders on the ground and witnessing first-hand the impact of government support.”

Mr. Tuivuniwai added that New Valley aims to transform Fiji’s agricultural export sector.

“Guided by our slogan, 'Markets Beyond Markets,” we are working closely with smallholder farmers in remote areas of Viti Levu, particularly in the highlands of Ra and Navosa Provinces. Our goal is to unlock economic opportunities for farmers in hard-to-reach areas.”

“As Hon. Rayalu shared during his visit that Fiji does not need farmers to work hard but to work smart.

We are fully aligned with this approach and are working to develop a smarter, more sustainable model for agri-exports,” added Mr. Tuivuniwai.

Looking ahead, New Valley plans to go beyond traditional exports by investing in modern extraction equipment to process local crops into high-value compounds for the global market.

“This will help ensure that our farmers receive premium prices for their produce and benefit more directly from value addition.”

He adds that they are grateful for the government’s support and look forward to continuing this partnership to drive growth and innovation in Fiji’s agriculture sector.

The entourage also visited the site of the new processing facility in Sabeto where construction works have begun.

ENDS

• ← Go to all Press Releases