New jetties coming soon to Kadavu, Lau to boost maritime trade

The Government will build new pine harvesting jetties in Ono, Kadavu, and Lakeba, Lau, as part of the next phase of the Maritime Pine Project.

This move is aimed at boosting inter-island trade, improving shipping, and strengthening disaster response across the maritime islands.

Ono Island, located northeast of the main island of Kadavu, is one of Fiji’s most remote maritime communities. Despite its rich pine forests, its people have long faced challenges in transporting timber and goods to Viti Levu due to limited port infrastructure.

Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu revealed this in Parliament on Tuesday.

She said the new jetties would be a game changer for these islands, connecting them more effectively to national markets and improving access for both trade and emergency response.

“These jetties will open up new economic opportunities for our maritime islands and help our people become more resilient during cyclones and other emergencies,” Ms Bainivalu said. 

Ms Bainivalu confirmed that the work will be started before the end of the next financial year on July 31, 2026. 

The programme also funded the construction of access roads in Nasegai and Wailevu, Kadavu, and storage yards in Vunisea and Narocake, which now serve more than 1400 people as local economic hubs.

Ms Bainivalu said the construction of the Ono and Lakeba jetties is part of the government’s plan to improve transport and logistics for pine harvesting and rural development.

“Our goal is to connect every pine-producing island to the national economy, from Kadavu to Gau and soon to Lau,” she said.

She also confirmed that sustainability remains central to the project, with 26,000 pine seedlings already planted to restore harvested areas, supported by village youth groups and local rugby teams.

However, she also stated that the Maritime Pine Project continues to show what can be achieved when government, landowners, and the private sector work together for sustainable and inclusive growth.

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