Two places in Lautoka are currently being surveyed for the establishment of the Manufacturing and Creation Zone.

This was outlined by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism permanent secretary Shaheen Ali.

He made the presentation at the Fiji Chamber of Commerce and Industry, West Business Forum at Fiji National University lecture theatre yesterday in Nadi.

Mr Ali said the areas in Drasa and Wairabatia, Lautoka,  are currently undergoing Geotech surveys after which the cabinet is expected to make a decision on where to situate the zone.

“For creation of the Manufacturing and Creation Zone, we are looking at creating a similar model to Kalabu Tax Free Zone which now employs 4000 people,” Mr Ali said.

He said the Kalabu Tax Free Zone had attracted world class companies.

Recently, Mr Ali said a debt recovery company from Australia has also announced that they will invest and set up in Kalabu Tax Free Zone.

“That will mean 400 more jobs as they set up their call centre and there is a potential to employ over 1000 locals in future,” he said.

Mr Ali said there had been an announcement made in the budget to have the zone.

“I think it will break convention in a sense that like the Kalabu Tax Free model, it will allow the investor to basically come with the readymade infrastructure.”

“They will be ensured with the provisions of all infrastructure including, electricity, IT connection.”

EDITED BY: FARZANA NISHA

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