“There should be a manufacturing strategic plan for Fiji that has a holistic approach to make Fiji the regional manufacturing hub,” he said.
“This strategic plan must incorporate all factors such as marketing, quality standards, productivity levels, human resource development, labor competency framework, and best practice benchmarking,” he added.
He said the growth of the manufacturing sector would also mean investment in buildings, plant and equipment, and creating employment.
Already there is a growing interest with a number of potential investors wanting to set up factories in Fiji.
“According to Fiji Islands Trades and Investment Bureau, in the past three years, seven TCF manufacturing projects have been registered representing a proposed investment of over FJ$5.4 million [$2.9 million] and proposed employment of over 121 locals,” Solanki said.
“Of these, three projects have been implemented. Most recently, during a trade show in Melbourne in November last year, we had two more companies interested in looking at Fiji to set-up a manufacturing plant,” he added.
Solanki believes the manufacturing sector in Fiji as percentage of Gross Domestic Product can be increased.
“I believe that a vibrant and forward-looking manufacturing sector can contribute greatly to a sustainable improvement in living standards for people of Fiji and a healthy economy,” he said.
