Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ Aitken Spence PLC, a Sri Lankan conglomerate, is progressing further with its investment plans in Fiji following a year-long planning and discussions. The multifaceted enterprise, which is known for its agricultural presence, is striving through its subsidiary, Elpitiya Plantations, to establish a long-term presence in the country’s farming sector. Aitken Spence first explored Fiji in 2024 and examined ways to provide modern farming technologies and renewable energy solutions to the local sector.
Also read: Modi Gets Namibia’s Top Civilian Award — A Historic First for Any Indian Leader!
During the visit, the representatives met with several key Fijian agricultural businesses, including Ranadi Plantations, Nature’s Way Cooperative, Jack’s Mango Farm, and Bula Coffee. Their visit was coordinated by Investment Fiji, the government’s investment promotion agency. The objective of the initiative was to find practical opportunities for expanding commercial agriculture and establishing partnerships with local stakeholders.
Accordingly, Dr. Rohan Fernando, a board member of Aitken Spence, stated that the company’s plan includes adopting advanced farming and processing technologies, with a focus on both domestic and export markets. “Fiji has strong potential for large-scale farming in crops like papaya, pineapple, mango, dragon fruit, coffee, tea, cinnamon, berries, lime, and passion fruit,” Dr. Fernando said.
Also read: Will India’s 2026 BRICS Presidency Redefine Global Leadership?
To move further with the plan, Aitken Spence representatives returned to Fiji last week to finalize land arrangements for their pilot project. The proposed site is located in Nawaicoba, Nadi. Accordingly, meetings were arranged to meet the landowners to discuss the terms of use and potential developments on the property. Investment Fiji confirmed that the delegation is also planning to register their business officially in the country. The team met with Investment Fiji CEO Kamal Chetty to review the project’s next steps and explore ways to partner with local businesses.
Also read: Father’s Day: Commonwealth Union crowns Actor Napolean as the Best Father!
In a statement, Investment Fiji revealed that the project intends to launch modern agricultural techniques, boost local employment, and raise Fiji’s export potential. Additionally, the agency is providing continuous support to the initiative by assisting Aitken Spence through the regulatory landscape and linking them with local players. If the project succeeds, it has the potential to reduce Fiji’s reliance on imported products, increase agricultural exports, and create new opportunities for the local economy.
