A BOOST to the tourism sector, economic benefits, cultural exchanges and education programs are likely after the establishment of a sister city partnership between Ba Town and Jiaxing, a prefecture-level city in China's Northern Zhejiang province.
Ba and Tavua special administrator Arun Prasad formalised the arrangement after signing an agreement with Jiaxing mayor Lu Jun in China last week.
Mr Prasad said investors would arrive in the country next month and talks were in progress for the establishment of a vegetable processing factory which would boost employment opportunities in Ba.
"A delegation from Jiaxing City will arrive in Ba mid-next month and they have expressed interest in pursuing investment in agriculture and tourism," Mr Prasad said.
"This will provide a unique opportunity for farmers to learn about very advanced farming technology used by the Chinese and also provide employment opportunities.
"They are also very interested in setting up a vegetable processing plant which means jobs."
Mr Prasad said the delegation would explore the establishment of a high standard accommodation facility for guests from the affluent Chinese city.
He said they had also discussed the setting up of a luxury hotel.