The new complex is estimated to bring in $35 million in gross foreign exchange earnings in the next eight years, says DHL Country manager Mahendra Singh.
Speaking on behalf of Bula Island Food Supplies Ltd (BIFS), Mr Singh said the complex will more than double the work force from current 42 to 113 staff members.
He said it was anticipated that in the next eight years majority of foreign exchange earnings would be filtered down to the ordinary farmers in rural Fiji.
"The complex should also provide the company an opportunity to greatly boost its weekly output and source additional markets abroad. It will be fully equipped to meet the increasingly stringent quality and Food Safety requirements of the destination countries," he said. "Situated on 1425 sq. metre block the building is a full 756 Sq. metres in size and well equipped for future growth. In addition to the processing area it contains one very large freezer room and an equally large cooler area. It will contain modern facilities for all staff with shower and recreation facilities.
"A special area is also provided for the regularity bodies including Biosecurity and Health Offices. The administration block upstairs boasts a large boardroom to host the customers and partners and this will also be used for training for the staff and the many partnering farmers. "The company has so far invested a little over $1.4 million and the total project is expected to cost well over $1.7 Million."
Mr Singh thanked the Ministry of Agriculture, the permanent secretary and all his staff: the staff of Biosecurity, Health and the Freight Team at Air Pacific led by Watson Seeto.
BIFS managing director, Mr Naidu thanked each and everyone who has assisted in any way or form in fulfilling his dream. Special mention must go to his wife Subashni Naidu, daughters Nancy and Shayal and to his operations manager in Fiji Miss Khushboo Sharma.