|
Standard Concrete Industries Grows Exports
Standard Concrete Industries (SCI), the largest manufacturer of concrete masonry blocks in Fiji continues to grow exports of its products to other Pacific Island nations. With the Construction Industry being quiet locally, the Pacific market has opened up a window of opportunity for the company. According to SCI National Manager Masonry and Export, Mr Umesh Kumar, exports has increased in the last five years and this is attributed to the quality of the company’s products. Mr. Kumar said, “We strongly believe in quality and will continue to do so. Standard Concrete is a brand name and most people in Fiji and the Pacific are well aware of our products.” Mr Kumar added that Fiji is well endowed with natural resources required for the production of cement and quarry based products and is centrally located within the South Pacific Region, close to many island nations where quarry and cement based products are not available locally. The regular shipping services from Fiji to these island nations have also been a benefit to the company. In confirming Mr Kumar’s statement, Basic Industries Limited CEO, Mr Mosese Volavola said, “Many of our neighbouring Pacific Island Countries do not have good quality sand, gravel or rocks available locally and therefore, purchase these materials from New Zealand and Australia for construction and major infrastructure development. Standard Concrete now offers the same products of equivalent quality but at a cheaper price and at a faster and more regular shipping service.” At present, the company’s Suva and Nadi Block plants are running on full capacity to accommodate demands for both Fiji and the Pacific Islands. Standard Concrete Industries exports concrete masonry blocks and quarry products to most pacific island countries and was able to gain entry into these nations by winning material supply contracts for major projects. For the last 5 years, the company has been involved in various projects both in Fiji and the Pacific. These projects include construction of roads, bridges, airstrips, wharfs and buildings. SCI won the ANZ large exporter of the year award 2006. It employs approximately 170 people Fiji wide. Due to the nature of work the company is involved in, employees go through special training programs each year. SCI is also looking at expansion into Tahiti, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea. About Standard Concrete Industries Standard Concrete Industries is a major division of Basic Industries Limited, a company jointly owned by Fijian Holdings Limited and Holcim New Zealand Limited, a leading supplier of cement, aggregates, ready mixed concrete and lime. Ends For enquiries please contact: Ilisapeci Levula Public Relations Officer Phone: 330 5017 Email: ilisapeci.levula@fijianholdings.com.fj |
|