'Don't Compromise Fijian Made Brand

Twelve years ago, Ziyaad Hussein, had a curious interest in honey.

"I was eager to eat honey," the Rakiraki based owner of Nahl Pure Honey, said.

"I got right into it."

"And I got it right."

Yesterday, Mr Hussein received the Fijian Made stamp of approval from the Ministry of Commerce and Trade.

Minister Faiyaz Koya commended the 33-year-old's efforts and urged him to value-add, in the interest of furthering his market share.

"Most people are now moving to glass, and less on plastic ware, because of its environmental impact," Mr Koya said.

"It elevates the value of your product."

"You must remember not to compromise the Fijian Made brand, as there is a certain standard of recognition that comes with that certification."

"Carry it with pride, with joy, because you will export your products."

Biblical connotation

From its Islamic translation, Nahl is a biblical reference to honeybees, Mr Hussein said.

"Many people have asked who the brand is named after, because it sounds mystical," he said.

"I chose it for its biblical origins."

On that principle, he vowed to maintain the purity of the brand.

"There are some people who cheat in the honey business," Mr Hussein said.

"They add molasses or syrup to it, which gives the industry a bad name."

"Our customers can trust the purity of Nahl Pure Honey."

The proceeds from his first harvest 12 years ago, was used to refinance his home grown business to build, to the 100 hives it now has.

The farm is now managed by his six family members, where the profits are sufficient to keep his family going.

Nahla Pure Honey is bottled in Nakasi, and has records as much as two tonnes of honey in a good year.

Available in R B Patel stores in the central division, and Cost U Less store, Nahl Pure Honey will soon expand its production to meet the growing market demand.

"We are now considering expansion to commercial levels that can cater to the international demand," Mr Hussein said.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj