FMCL to consider copra price

Fiji Coconut Millers Limited (FMCL) will consider an increase in the price of raw copra once they are financially in a stable position.

Permanent Secretary for Public Enterprises, Parmesh Chand said Government already subsidised 50 per cent of the current copra price while FMCL subsidised the other half.

Copra production is mainly concentrated along the Bua and Cakaudrove Province, which caters for the bulk of the copra farmers in Fiji.

Mr Chand was asked whether farmers or FMCL have proposed for an allocation of copra driers or increase in copra prices. In response, he said no request has been.

However, he confirmed that FMCL were engaged seeking assistance from donor agencies to fund dryers.

“So far FMCL have had discussions with at least three agencies/embassy on this project,” he said.

Regarding the coconut replanting programme, Mr Chand described it as an initiative by FMCL to encourage farmers to engage in the copra sector.

“The Government is supportive of this initiative as it contributes to sustainable coconut farming which will ensure that there is coconut supply in the future,” he said.

“This programme helps farmers to earn additional income for their daily livelihood,” he said.

Mr Chand said the Government has entrusted the Board and management of FMCL with the implementation of the programme.

“Should there be any changes made to the programme, the ministry will be advised accordingly by FMCL,” he said.

FMCL is currently undertaking its six months inspection which will be completed by Friday.

Mr Chand said this year, as part of the programmes, 238 farmers have been distributed 25,000 seedlings by FCML. The construction of the concrete pavement at the FMCL mill in Savusavu, which was officially opened by the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere in 2022, had improved their raw copra proper shortage capability.

The $80,000 investment ensured the high hygiene standards of the copra production and harvesting process.

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