Lautoka has long been one of Fiji’s most vital economic gateways, says Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
Officiating at the opening of the Yard 4 Container Project, Mr Rabuka said this was not merely the commissioning of additional port infrastructure but a declaration of intent that “Fiji is open for business”.
“That we are investing in our future, and that we refuse to be constrained by the limits of yesterday’s infrastructure,” he said.
” As Fiji’s second international port, it serves our farmers, our manufacturers, our importers and exporters, our tourism industry, and ultimately every Fijian household that depends on the efficient flow of goods and trade.
“Today, we make that gateway stronger, smarter, and better equipped to serve the next generation of Fijians.”
The event marked the completion of several important projects at the Port of Lautoka- the rehabilitation of Queen’s Wharf, the dredging of the harbour, the expansion of Container Yard 4, and the launch of the Lautoka Port Master Plan.
“This project did not happen by accident,” Mr Rabuka added.
“It is the product of disciplined planning, strategic investment, and strong partnerships forged across government, industry, and our regional development partners.
“In September 2024, I did the groundbreaking ceremony for this Yard 4 Project and now after 18 months of its completion, I am so honoured to be standing before you in officially opening this Container Yard together with the successful completion of Queen’s Wharf Rehabilitation, Dredging, and the launch of the Lautoka Port Master Plan.
“I gather that Fiji Ports Corporation Limited has done substantial amount of investment into these projects:
· Queen’s Wharf Rehabilitation – to improve structural integrity and operational safety ($14m).
· Dredging – to enhance operational reliability, improve marine safety, and strengthen FPCL’s ongoing commitment to maintaining safe, efficient, and resilient maritime infrastructure at the Port of Lautoka ($6.81m).
· Lautoka Port Foreshore Development and Port Master Plan – to provide a structured, long-term development framework that guides the sustainable expansion, modernization, and efficient utilization of the Port of Lautoka ($503,754).
· Container Yard 3 & 4 Upgrades – to expand container yard capacity and enhance overall port efficiency to meet growing cargo volumes and operational demands ($24.3m)”.
Mr Rabuka said the Yard 4 Container Project was a direct and urgent response to one of the most pressing challenges identified in the Master Plan: yard capacity constraints.
“The existing container yard, at approximately four hectares, is already operating close to its effective limits — capable of supporting only 85,000 to 89,000 TEUs at efficient utilisation levels. Projections confirm that without intervention, additional yard capacity will be needed as early as 2027 to 2029.”
