FMF Foods Limited yesterday launched a new addition to its wide range of consumer products – tea from Sri Lanka.
This is the result of its partnership with Sri Lanka-based pioneer and leading manufacturer of premium tea Elpitiya Plantations.
FMF will package and distribute premium Ceylon tea from Elpitiya Plantations under its ‘FMF Finest Premium Ceylon Tea’ product line, now available in supermarkets Fiji-wide.
Officiating at the launch, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica said such partnerships could establish Fiji as a key player in the herbal tea market.
“This occasion marks a new chapter not only for FMF but for our nation’s agricultural and manufacturing industries,” Mr Kamikamica said.
“By leveraging our country’s strategic location as a trade hub for the Pacific, we can create new export opportunities, generate employment, and support local businesses.”
He said the global market is witnessing an increased demand for organic, herbal, and wellness-focused teas, with consumers looking for healthier, natural alternatives to traditional beverages.
“This shift presents a timely opportunity for FMF to diversify its product range.
“Particularly through its partnership with Elpitiya Plantations, to introduce premium and functional teas to Fijian consumers and beyond.”
Elpitiya Plantations managing director Rohan Fernando welcomed the partnership, saying it was based on the uniqueness of Ceylon tea, the technical know-how and backing, tea from Elpitiya plantations and FMF Foods Ltd, a household name in consumerism, “a family that has an unparalleled history and is committed to Fiji”.
He said over the decades, Sri Lanka had become one of the world’s leading tea producers.
“Not only known for producing large quantity of tea, but renowned for its quality, renowned for its flavor, renowned for its diversity,” Mr Fernando said.
“We have tea growing in all three elevations of our beautiful country – in the beautiful hill country over 6000 ft, where the hills are covered with mists, and in the lower elevations where you have a different type of flavour.
“So when you buy Ceylon tea, the diversity the consumer is exposed to is enormous, is wide and you can pick and choose.”
FMF Group’s marketing manager Maria Kumar said consumer demand was behind FMF Foods’ choice to add tea to its range of products.
“People ask why tea? We’re leveraging FMF’s strong brand and distribution network and the diversification of FMF’s product portfolio itself,” Ms Kumar said.
She said from last year’s survey, most demand from consumers was tea.
“So, FMF’s finest premium Ceylon tea is finally here for you.”
NOTE: This article was first published in the print edition of the Fiji Times dated MARCH 15, 2025.
