At least 90 per cent of Xclent Transport Pte Limited’s staff are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Company director Tarik Hussein said since the coronavirus pandemic began last year, none of his staff members contracted the virus.

The eldest of four siblings has been running his own transportation business with branches in Suva and Lautoka for 21 years.

Although the company is facing about a 50 to 60 percent decline in business operation, it has never stopped providing cargo services across the two main islands and inter-islands.

Mr Hussein said the secret behind keeping a safe COVID- 19 working environment since last year was being obedient to the Government and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services protocols.

“I follow Dr James Fong’s daily statements, announcements made by the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and the Fiji Police Force,” Mr Husseinsaid.

“I am really thankful to their advisory messages because it helps me to relay the messages to my staff making sure they don’t breach any protocol.”

He used to send more than 20 trucks with goods weekly to Vanua Levu but now sends about 10 to 15.

This he said was due to huge operational costs which include catering for increasing fuel cost since January, increased international freight cost, maintenance of vehicles and accommodating of exchange of two drivers at Natovi and Nabouwalu jetties.

“I currently have 40 staff and they have families to look after like I do,” he said.

“I am originally from Labasa and my parents who are in their 60’s are fully vaccinated and I have been looking after them.”

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