A massive sign of confidence in the Fijian Drua was shown by Government last night when they announced their investment plans in the team.

The establishment of the Fijian Drua and the business activity created by its participation in the Super Rugby Pacific competition will further support the development and commercialisation of the local sporting industry, an area of great comparative/competitive advantage for Fiji.

“This will help attract foreign investors, boost investor confidence and provide another source of foreign exchange for Fiji. The creation of the Fijian Drua franchise and its participation in the competition will result in the progressive creation of over 65 new jobs to the economy and will provide a massive platform for television exposure into Fiji’s core tourism markets of Australia and New Zealand, with the potential to reach other key markets around the globe.

To assist the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) and the Fijian Drua in meeting the New Zealand Rugby Union’s financing requirements for Super Rugby Pacific, Government will invest $6 million for a 51 per cent stake in Counter Ruck Pte. Limited (CRL), which owns and operates the Fijian Drua.

“Through this revised budget, Government will allocate the first tranche of $3 million for a 25.5 per cent stake, and the second tranche- an additional $3 million will be undertaken by December 2022 to secure the total 51 per cent stake.”

By December 2022, FRU will own 49 per cent while Government will own 51 per cent. FRU will maintain management control of the company, and Government may consider divesting its shares in future once there is private sector interest in the business.

“In addition, CRL will be granted a 13-year income tax holiday, and will be provided a waiver for customs duty on goods imported specifically for the establishment of Fijian Drua-related venues and High-Performance Unit for the period 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023.

“A 200 per cent tax deduction is also provided for sponsorship above $250,000 to the Fijian Drua. Government support for the Fijian Drua will ensure that the potential benefits of the team on the growth and development of local rugby is realised, and that we capitalise on the abundance of naturally gifted athletes and rugby players in Fiji.”

The Fijian Drua provides an avenue for our domestic players to pursue professional sports careers right here in the Pacific, further strengthening grassroots rugby.

Home matches that will be played in Fiji will become important sports tourism events and result in the creation of jobs and economic activity.

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