The Fijian ‘Made Buy Fiji Campaign’ rose to a new level with the launch of ‘Manufacturers Month’ in Lautoka on April 30, 2012.
Industry and Trade Minister Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum described the Campaign as ‘significant to the Western Division’ where a majority of the stakeholders in the manufacturing sector are based.
He said it was essential for Fijians to acknowledge and understand the essence of the campaign as it has numerous benefits for the country.
He said the campaign ensured job security as well as a better future for Fijian businesses and the economy.
“It is imperative that we all understand that if we buy Fijian products, we are not only putting a Fijian product on the shelf but also creating jobs. We are ensuring that more money stays in Fiji and more businesses grow. When the business grows, it pays more tax, enabling the government to build roads, schools and hospitals,” he said.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum also highlighted the need for business owners to invest more money in their businesses.
Competitive pricing
“We are trying to tell the people of Fiji that they must firstly recognise what is made in Fiji. We are also at the same time trying to tell the business people and companies that we have a market waiting for you. We want you to invest more money into your businesses because you will then be able to ensure more people buying your products,” he said.
Fijian businesses should capitalise on the benefits they have obtained by successfully promoting their products internationally.
He was hopeful that products would be competitively priced in the domestic market for the benefit of the people.
“We will be giving ‘Fijian Made’ logos to businesses that will stamp them on their products. We now have more than 20 companies that have come forward and are now certified carriers of the ‘Fijian Made’ logo.
“We must be able to differentiate the authenticity of the Fijian made products and help our local businesses get more money,” Mr Khaiyum said.
Government of Fiji Press Release
