July 30, 2025
In the bid to strengthen Fiji’s agricultural sector and empower rural communities, the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna, officially handed over a brand-new tractor to Island Magic (Fiji) PTE Limited today at Matovo, Sigatoka.
Delivering his remarks at the ceremony, the Hon. Tunabuna emphasized the broader significance of the event.
“This moment marks a significant milestone, not just for Island Magic but for our wider commitment as a government to empower businesses, strengthen local industries and support sustainable growth across our economy.”
Hon. Tunabuna commended Island Magic for its contributions to the agricultural sector.
“Island Magic (Fiji) PTE Limited has demonstrated great potential and initiative in its operations and today’s handover is a testament to your commitment towards development, innovation and service to the community.”
He acknowledged the company’s support for local farmers, “I would like to thank Island Magic for their assistance in buying turmeric from 250 farmers in Nadroga Navosa province which has made a great impact in improving their livelihood.”
In addition, the contribution from Island Magic has significant impact on the export market of turmeric in Fiji.
Currently, Fiji is exporting 3,646.2 metric tonnes ($25.2 million) worth of turmeric whereby Island Magic contributes more than a million in a year.
The Assistant Minister highlighted the transformational potential of the new equipment.
“This handover marks more than the delivery of machinery, it is a step forward in our collective journey toward economic empowerment, modernization and productivity enhancement.”
“The tractor we are handing over is not just a piece of equipment, it is a tool for transformation, with it comes the capacity to increase output, reduce manual labour, improve efficiency and open up new opportunities for growth and employment especially for our farmers.”
He outlined the government’s strategic priorities of strengthening the agricultural sector, creating sustainable rural livelihoods and ensuring that small and medium enterprises have the tools they need to succeed.
Hon. Tunabuna reaffirmed the government’s support for local enterprises.
“Our government is proud to support enterprises like Island Magic Fiji Limited because we know that when we invest in local businesses, we invest in jobs, in families and in the future of our nation.”
“I encourage the management and team at Island Magic to make full use of this asset, to increase output, generate employment and continue contributing meaningfully to Fiji’s development.”
“Let this tractor be a symbol of growth, may it turn not only the soil beneath us, but also the wheels of opportunity and prosperity for all those you serve for development and productivity.”
“I am happy to see that people are happy with the assistance, it is truly rewarding to witness the positive impact this support has on our farmers and communities.”
Director and CEO of Island Magic (Fiji) PTE Limited, Mr. Tahu Hikuroa, expressed his gratitude for the government’s support.
“We are deeply grateful to the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways for this generous assistance, this tractor will make a real difference in our operations and in the lives of the farmers we work with. It’s a powerful symbol of partnership and progress and we are proud to be part of Fiji’s agricultural future.”
ENDS