FMF Group is about to head into an entirely different industry after securing an exclusive deal to become the sole distributor of Chinese Yunnan Maimiao Auto Service Co Ltd’s Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Fiji and the South Pacific.
The two parties signed a memorandum of understanding on the deal at FMF’s main office in Walu Bay, Suva on Tuesday this week.
In a bold move, the company is preparing to open its first showroom and service centre in Suva later this year, marking its official entry into the automotive sector which is now anticipated to be a milestone in Fiji’s journey toward clean energy and sustainable transport.
The planned showroom will showcase a range of new EVs electric cars including Geely, Wuling, Geely Radar and a wide lineup of commercial vehicles built for sustainability and efficiency.
Speaking to the media after the MOU signing, FMF managing director and CEO Sanjay Punja said the partnership would allow FMF to make sustainable transport accessible, practical, reliable and affordable for Fijians.
“This is not just about cars, it’s about transformation, of mobility, mindset and of our commitment to delivering value to the people of Fiji in new and meaningful ways,” Mr Punja said.
He said FMF’s expansion to the automotive sector was a strategic response to a common consumer concern – rising fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, expanses and the growing environmental concerns.
“This partnership is not just a business move, it’s an investment in people, in clean energy and in long-term sustainability,” Mr Punja said.
The expected development is forecasted to require job creation in serving and operations, training and technical upskilling, promote local business engagement and greater regional connectivity through shared infrastructure.
Their partnership with Yunnan Maimiao, a major player in China’s global automotive export market, offers FMF the opportunity to access ideas, technology and resources to implement these propositions locally.
The models are well suited to Fiji’s terrain and infrastructure with driving ranges between 400-600kilometres and EVs priced at below $50,000 which comes with a warranty of 6-8 years
“If I were you, I would put a hold on purchasing my next vehicle whether new or second hand for personal use/company — until you see our vehicles the deals we offer,” Mr Punja said.
“For a 500km trip in Fiji, you’d spend about $130 on petrol SUVs but you’d spend $30 on electricity by charging on our Geely EX5-type EV.
“That’s a saving of approximately $100 on each 500km journey, making EVs clearly much cheaper to run on the island. And if you use a solar charger, then there is a ‘ZERO’ cost.
“This includes small, medium and Utes mini vans and commercial trucks and we intend to set up charging station for the EVs around Fiji.
“This isn’t just affordable, its a smarter, more sustainable way to move,” Mr Punja said.
The showroom in Suva is just the beginning. FMF plans to open additional showrooms in the Western and the Northern divisions by next year and to also expand into the Pacific region.
“People may be cautious and rightly so; our responsibility is to make the transition smooth, supported and reliable as we’re not just importing EVs, we’re building an entire EV support ecosystem in Fiji.
“Together with Yunnan Maimiao, we are committed to delivering “Thoughtful Service — Enjoy Car Life Without Worries”; this isn’t just a slogan it’s our service philosophy.
“To our Government, thank you for the confidence and support you continue to offer. To our Chinese partners, thank you for your trust in FMF. And to the people of Fiji and the South Pacific — we’re proud to bring this vision to life with you.” Mr Punja said.