THE people of Naseyani Village in Ra had a reason to celebrate yesterday after construction work on a $50million water bottling plant was officially commissioned, marking a new chapter of economic sustainability for the community.
Located just a few kilometres from the world renowned Fiji Water bottling plant, the Fiji Wai Water Bottling facility is expected to produce a high volume of bottled water destined for local and global markets.
Naseyani Village headman Penania Sarida said the groundbreaking ceremony was the start of a new wave of economic opportunities for their people.
“This will bring jobs, income-generating opportunities for us,” said Mr Sarida. “It means food on the table, proper houses and more jobs for our people.
“We will have better roads and proper water supply too which is something we have been asking for a long time.
“We are grateful and thank the Fiji Wai investors, Unit Trust of Fiji and the Government for making this happen.”
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said the venture was an ambitious and visionary project.
“Over the next nine months, major developments will commence on site, as we oversee the construction of a state-of-the-art commercial water bottling plant,” said Mr Rabuka.
“This facility, which will take its physical form over the next six months, is purposely built to penetrate high-value export markets.
“By adhering to rigorous ISO standards, we are ensuring that this plant anchors the projects industrial capacity and reinforces Fiji’s global competitiveness in the premium water sector.
“By integrating premium market requirements with rigorous sustainability standards, the facility elevates Fiji’s standing within the global water industry.
“Beyond its high-volume capacity, the plant is a cornerstone for quality and safety, ensuring that every stage of the export value chain meets international excellence.”
He said the new Naseyani plant, was scheduled for commissioning in January 2027 and would house one of Fiji’s highest capacity bottling lines, capable of producing 36,000 bottles per hour.
“Government is looking forward to this important initiative as it will be the most advanced facility of its kind in Fiji, it is strategically positioned to scale our export capacity across the global market.”
The Prime Minister thanked the people of Naseyani and the mataqali Tawa for cooperating with the investors and government.
