MORE than 350 jobs will be on offer when the Ba River delta iron-sand miner Amex Resources Limited (ARL) begins construction of their Lautoka wharf facility.
Managing director Matthew Collard revealed approximately 300 more would be generated once mining proper began.
"The construction phase which has already started will involve mainly local contractors with an anticipated work force of approximately 350 people," he said. "The operation when fully underway will provide approximately 300 full-time jobs to skilled and unskilled workers, from local communities wherever possible."
Mr Collard said ARL was looking at a decade of operations in Fiji which could be extended if more resources were found.
Mineral Resources Department director Mala Finau said apart from the employment benefits, ARL's development would stimulate economic activity in the west and boost the nation's coffers.
"Increased revenue through taxation, royalty payments which is equivalent to 3 per cent of the value of ore extracted."
Mining works are scheduled to begin sometime next year.