FMF taps into electric vehicle market

The Flour Mills of Fiji (FMF) Group has signed a landmark partnership with China’s Yunnan Maimiao Auto Service Co., Ltd, paving the way for affordable electric vehicles (EVs) to hit Fijian and Pacific roads.

The deal, signed at FMF’s Suva headquarters yesterday, grants FMF exclusive distribution rights for major Chinese EV brands — including Geely, Wuling, and Geely Radar — across the Pacific region.

“If I were you, I’d hold off buying your next vehicle,” said FMF Director Ram Bajekal Punja.

“We’re about to offer top-quality EVs at prices below $50,000, with running costs far cheaper than petrol.”

He said a 500-kilometre trip using an electric Geely EX5 would cost just $30 in electricity, compared to around $130 in fuel for a petrol SUV.

The new range of EVs will include city cars, utes, vans, and commercial trucks, all tailored for Pacific conditions. FMF also plans to install charging stations nationwide, with its first EV showroom and service centre set to open in Suva later this year, and branches in the West and North by 2026.

Yunnan Executive Vice Governor Zhao Junmin and MMIAUTO Chairman Wang Chen described the partnership as a key milestone in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, highlighting its focus on green mobility in the region.

Mr Chen said FMF’s strong logistics network and dedication to quality made it “a natural partner” for the company’s Pacific expansion.

All EVs under the new partnership will come with six- to eight-year warranties and full access to service and spare parts.

Mr Punja said the initiative would also create new jobs, expand technical training, and support Fiji’s climate goals.

“This is an investment in our people and our future,” he said.

The agreement marks a major leap forward for sustainable transport and deepens growing China-Fiji trade ties.