Aitken Spence Plantation Managements PLC has announced a landmark agricultural initiative in Fiji aimed at transforming the island nation’s commercial farming sector. The strategic undertaking brings together Sri Lanka’s plantation expertise and Fiji’s agricultural potential, with a focus on modernising farming systems, introducing sustainable agro-technology, and strengthening food security while boosting export growth.
The project follows a successful exploratory mission in 2024, during which an Aitken Spence delegation met with a broad range of Fijian stakeholders including government ministries, cooperatives, plantation operators, farm owners and food processors. Building on this foundation, the company is now securing land in Nawaicoba, Nadi to establish a pilot project that will introduce high-value horticultural and plantation crops such as papaya, pineapples, dragon fruit, berries, mangoes, coffee, tea, cinnamon, lime and passion fruit.
The initiative will combine advanced farming practices with modern processing technologies to create an integrated model for large-scale, sustainable agriculture.
“Fiji presents a wealth of opportunities for commercial farming,” said Dr Rohan Fernando, Board Director of Aitken Spence Plantations. “Our approach is comprehensive, combining innovation, sustainability and strong partnerships, with a focus not only on local consumption but on building export capabilities.”
The initiative has been facilitated by Investment Fiji, with strong support from the Ministry of Agriculture and other national stakeholders.
As one of the country’s key agencies promoting international collaboration, Investment Fiji played a pivotal role in encouraging Aitken Spence Plantation Managements PLC to venture into Fiji’s agricultural sector, connecting expertise and enabling the transfer of modern agricultural technologies to benefit the nation.
Kamal Chetty, Chief Executive Officer of Investment Fiji, underscored the importance of the partnership, noting that Aitken Spence Plantation Managements PLC’s investment is a great accomplishment for Fiji, and it’s a strategic success the agency have been working on since early 2024.
"This project supports the Government’s plan to grow our agriculture sector and achieve economic diversification," Chetty said.
The official also thank the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, MSMEs and Communications Manoa Kamikamica for his support in making the investment possible, starting with his initial conversations to encourage the company to invest in Fiji.
"We are excited about the potential of this investment, especially in how it will lift our rural economy. It will bring new farming technology, create jobs, and offer crucial support to our smallholder farmers by connecting them to new markets. This is how we turn foreign investment into shared prosperity for all Fijians," Chetty said.
Designed with sustainability at its core, the venture will integrate renewable energy solutions to optimise yields, minimise environmental impact, and ensure long-term viability.
The project is expected to not only expand Aitken Spence’s international footprint but also demonstrate how forward-looking partnerships can deliver inclusive growth — linking communities, markets and nations through agriculture.
