TALKS are in place to turn Fiji into a hub for IV fluid manufacturing.
Responding to a question from Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu whether discussions from 2020 to set up medical manufacturing facilities in Fiji was still in place, Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu confirmed engaging two potential investors.
“As it is, I believe there is some tax incentives for pharmaceutical plants that want to come and establish themselves in Fiji, especially IV fluid manufacturers,” said Dr Lalabalavu.
“That is still open.
“I have had talks with two investors who are willing to come over and set up IV fluid plants here and one is our very own.”
Dr Lalabalavu said his recent visit to India also opened doors to these discussions.
“On our trip to India we had also asked one of the big companies there to come to Fiji and look at the opportunity of establishing themselves here, not only to serve Fiji but also the region as well.
“We had the opportunity to visit a few manufacturing plans whereby one of them specialises in manufacturing IV fluids alone.
“The discussions are ongoing to consider Fiji as a potential market despite our low purchasing power.”
