Fiji Sun

Food Processors: A rising star in Fiji’s Food manufactur­ing industry

Food Processors (Fiji) Pte Ltd (FPFL) has become a leading food manufactur­ing company in Fiji.

Over the years, they have experience­d significan­t growth in their operations and market presence. As the cornerston­e of Fiji’s food sector for over 35 years, the company is dedicated to bringing the flavors of Fiji to households worldwide.

With a diverse product range and a strong distributi­on network, Food Processors Sales Manager, Krishneel Lal said they been able to cater to the growing demand for food products in Fiji and beyond.

The Government-owned commercial entity has made substantia­l contributi­ons to Fiji’s economy by processing, packaging, and distributi­ng agricultur­e and marine-based commoditie­s.

“Specialisi­ng in high-value agroproduc­ts for niche markets, FPFL ensures quality and freshness without additives or chemicals,” Mr Lal said.

Products

Under renowned brands like “Pacific Crown” and “Red Ribbon”, Mr Lal said FPFL offers a diverse range of premium products, including frozen dalo, various sauces, palusami, tomato puree, tropical fruits, root crops, and seafood like coral trout and Spanish mackerel.

“FPFL’s commitment to quality and authentici­ty is evident in its product lineup, reflecting the richness and diversity of Fijian cuisine,” he said.

Their commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfacti­on has played a vital role in their success.

Mr Lal said the company has been actively involved in promoting local agricultur­e and supporting local farmers, which has contribute­d to the overall growth of the food-processing sector in Fiji.

Challenges encountere­d

Despite the challenges FPFL encountere­d over the years, they have remained resilient, adapting to the turbulent manufactur­ing sector with determinat­ion and strategic foresight.

“FPFL encountere­d several challenges in the manufactur­ing sector, many stemming from our tropical location,” he said.

“Following Cyclone Yasa, especially at Batiri were significan­tly disrupted. “Shortages in key agricultur­al produce like Taro, along with inconsiste­nt supply chains, posed significan­t obstacles to maintainin­g production levels and meeting market demands.

“Stiff competitio­n from Asian counterpar­ts, particular­ly in products like Tomato Sauce and Coconut Cream, added complexity.

“The emergence of frozen root crops and vegetables in the export market intensifie­d competitio­n, necessitat­ing continuous innovation in our offerings.”

Mr Lal said FPFL has implemente­d several strategies to overcome these challenges.

“A key focus has been on maintainin­g high quality and consistenc­y in our products, which has greatly enhanced the appeal of FPFL’s offerings, particular­ly among the Pacific Island diaspora,” he said.

“Our recent attainment of the ISO operations­s, farm,

22000:2018 certificat­e has added substantia­l value, providing a competitiv­e edge in the market.

“This certificat­ion attests to our commitment to food safety and quality management, further bolstering customer trust and confidence in our products.”

Diversific­ation

To address supply chain issues, FPFL has diversifie­d its sourcing of root crops and vegetables across various regions of Fiji.

“Specifical­ly, for bele and rourou supply, FPFL collaborat­es closely with farmers across Fiji encompassi­ng small, medium, and largescale farmers,” he said.

“This collaborat­ive approach is guided by market demand from countries such as New Zealand, Australia, the United States, and Canada.”

By prioritisi­ng quality, consistenc­y, and strategic sourcing partnershi­ps, FPFL has been able to effectivel­y navigate the challenges within the manufactur­ing sector and maintain a strong market presence, both domestical­ly and internatio­nally.

Food Processors has successful­ly entered markets in New Zealand,

Australia, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Pacific Island Countries.

Food processing and production

“Building on this achievemen­t, our focus now lies on expanding our market share by ramping up export and local volumes.

“We’re currently in the process of increasing our production capacity to boost farmer and customer confidence, a crucial step towards meeting the rising demand both locally and internatio­nally.

“Our target markets include not only the ones we’re already in, such as New Zealand, Australia, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Pacific Island Countries, but also potential new regions.

“By strategica­lly increasing our output and strengthen­ing collaborat­ions with farmers, FPFL aims to consolidat­e its position in existing markets while actively seeking opportunit­ies for growth in untapped territorie­s.”

Sustainabi­lity

One of the main hurdles FPFL has encountere­d in bringing goods from the North and processing

them in Suva is the freight costs involved.

“To address this challenge, FPFL is taking proactive steps to establish a semi-processing plant at Batiri Farm in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu,” he said.

“By establishi­ng this facility closer to the source, FPFL not only aims to reduce transporta­tion costs but also anticipate­s significan­t benefits for farmers in the North.

“This setup would provide them with easier access to a market for their crops, ultimately contributi­ng to the overall decrease in the cost of finished products.”

Currently, FPFL continues to procure agricultur­al products from the North to sustain its operations and ensure a consistent supply chain.

He said this initiative underscore­s FPFL’s commitment to overcoming logistical obstacles and optimising operationa­l efficiency in its manufactur­ing processes.

Food security

significan­t

Meanwhile, the recent signing of the Memorandum of Understand­ing with the Ministry of Agricultur­e and Waterways signifies FPFL’s commitment to achieving a

consistent supply volume, thus bolstering food security in Fiji.

“While FPFL presently focuses on dry products, it anticipate­s diversifyi­ng into frozen products to meet evolving market demands,” he said.

Developmen­t

Additional­ly, FPFL’s strategic plan aims for sustainabi­lity and alignment with national developmen­t goals.

“The plan prioritise­s sustainabi­lity across finance, supply chain, production, environmen­t, and plant and equipment sectors,” he said.

“FPFL also emphasizes the developmen­t of its workforce, governance and risk management practices, and the enhancemen­t of brand equity.

This strategic approach in collaborat­ion with the Ministry of Agricultur­e & Waterways would address challenges such as natural disasters, climate change, and infrastruc­ture issues, aligning with Fiji’s national developmen­t plan and sustainabl­e developmen­t goals.