Bulk cargo, vehicle imports, and cruise activity are expected to grow steadily at the Lautoka Port, according to Fiji Ports Corporation Limited chairperson Isikeli Tuituku.
Mr Tuituku made these comments while speaking at the opening of the Lautoka Container Yard 4 yesterday, saying that these projections send a clear message: Lautoka Port must be ready for the future.
“Container throughput at Lautoka Port currently stands at approximately 80,000 twenty-foot equivalent Units (TEUs),” he said.
“By 2045, this could exceed 120,000 TEUs, and by 2053 could reach between 160,000 and 190,000 TEUs.
“These are conservative estimated growth we think we can achieve in a shorter time as ship owners realise the efficiencies, we are able to achieve.”
Mr Tuituku said the Yard 4 Container Project addresses a specific and well-documented constraint in its operational infrastructure.
“By expanding the available yard space, we increase stacking capacity, improve truck circulation within the port, and enhance the overall efficiency of container operations.
“This project also moves FPCL toward the efficiency benchmark of 200 TEU ground slots per hectare, helping position Lautoka competively within the Pacific region.
“Importantly, Yard 4 is not a standalone investment. It is the first deliverable of the long-term infrastructure programme outlined in the Lautoka Port Master Plan.”
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said Lautoka Port played a vital role in the economy of the Western Division and the nation as a whole.
“It supports agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and regional trade,” he said.
“It enables our farmers, businesses, and exporters to connect with markets beyond our shores. Most importantly, it creates jobs and opportunities for the people of Fiji.
“That is why investments like this are so important. They are not simply about infrastructure—they are about building a stronger and more resilient economy for our people.”
Mr Rabuka acknowledged the support of the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) for their confidence in Fiji’s infrastructure ambitions and financing this critical work.
“Your investment in Lautoka Port is an investment in Pacific regional trade and prosperity,” he said.
“To GHD (Fiji) Ltd, we commend your professionalism, technical rigour, and commitment in delivering the Port Master Plan.”
