Fiji aims to further enhance its port capabilities

In line with his vision to make Fiji the hub of the Pacific by enhancing Fiji’s ports efficiency and capacity, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka visited the Xiamen International Shipping Science Innovation Centre and Silk Road Maritime Management Centre in Xiamen, Fujian Province yesterday.

The facilities oversee the Xiamen port which is one of China’s key coastal ports and rated in the top twenty best and most efficient ports in the world, serving as a crucial hub in the national transportation system, a major digitalized container port, a cruise home port and an important port for exchange across the Taiwan Strait.

Upon arriving at the facilities, Prime Minister Rabuka and his delegation received a detailed overview of the daily operations at Xiamen Port.

In receiving the Fiji delegation, Mr Xia Changwer, the Director General of Xiamen Port Authority, said that the port comprises several terminals, including container terminals, bulk cargo terminals, and specialized facilities for oil and gas.

The port’s infrastructure showcases Xiamen’s technological advancement with modern container handling equipment and efficient customs procedures, enabling quick turnaround times.

The port of Xiamen Port plays a key role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative which is connected to major international shipping routes and free trade zones, which promotes foreign investment and businesses.

Mr. Changwer shared that Xiamen is open to expanding its cooperation with Fiji, particularly in the cruise liner industry and other areas of mutual interest.

Prime Minister Rabuka was impressed with the state-of-the-art port, expressing Fiji’s interest to learning from Xiamen to further boost the nation’s maritime trade and regional and international logistics.

The Fiji Government continues to invest in infrastructure to enhance port services, including container handling and storage, customs processing, and support for the maritime sectors.