FDB and FCDCL Partner to Strengthen Fiji’s Dairy Industry

The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) and Fiji Cooperative Dairy Company Limited, (FCDCL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aim at supporting Fiji’s dairy farmers and strengthening the growth and sustainability of the country’s dairy industry.
The partnership will focus on improving farmers access to suitable financing while identifying practical investment opportunities to increase both the volume and quality of milk production in Fiji.

Speaking at the signing ceremony FDB Chief Executive Officer Mr. Filimone Waqabaca said agriculture remains a critical sector for Fiji’s economic and social development.
“At FDB, we recognise that agriculture is more than an economic sector. It supports livelihoods, creates employment, strengthens rural communities and contributes to our nation’s food security. Our dairy farmers play an essential role in this contribution. However, increasing milk production requires more than hard work. Farmers need access to appropriate financing, productive farm infrastructure, quality livestock, pasture development, equipment, technical guidance and sound financial management.”
FCDCL Chairman Mr. Uraia Waibuta welcomed the partnership, noting that collaboration between industry stakeholders and financial institutions is essential to helping dairy farmers grow and improve productivity.

“We look forward to continuous work progress, and the bottom line is for the benefit of our shareholders and farmers who are present here. The engagement with FDB, other stakeholders, and FCDCL has been productive and has allowed us to again reach this far. To you farmers, I know what we have been doing today is directed towards you, and we look forward to how well we use these products for our own benefit.”
Through the Mou FDB and FCDCL will combine their respective strengths, leveraging FDB’s development financing expertise and FCDCL’s industry knowledge and direct engagement with dairy farmers.

The partnership will support farmers in identifying investment needs, preparing bankable loan proposals maintaining farm records and improving their understanding of financial management and productive borrowing.

The two organisations will also explore opportunities to strengthen financial literacy, farm business management and climate-resilient farming practices across the diary sector.
FDB also acknowledged the support of the Asian Development Bank and its consultants in advancing the initiative.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to empowering dairy farmers, improving local milk production and building a stronger and more resilient dairy industry for Fiji.