publication: Fijian Made

Fijian businesses are coming together under the Fiji Trade Commission banner to showcase the taste of Fijian delicacies at the Auckland Food Show next week from the 25th – 28th of July.

The Fiji Trade Commission, together with Investment Fiji, as part of the Fiji Ministry of Trade is proud to support Fijian SME’s and exporters to participate in trade shows such as this, not only to give them an opportunity to pitch their products, but also so they can get latest market insights, consumer demands & best practices which they can take back with them to Fiji.

Mr. Daniel Stow, the Trade Commissioner highlights that through such an extravagant tradeshow we can demonstrate Fiji’s ability to produce niche and premium products suitable for oversea exports.

“We are pleased to be back for the Auckland Food Show for 2024. We believe this is an ideal platform for Fijian exporters to showcase their premium range of products to a targeted international audience of buyers, importers and distributors.

“Some of these companies are fulfilling their social responsibilities in Fiji by engaging with the local village communities as a step towards reaching their end manufacturing goal, such as engaging with ginger, turmeric and chili farmers that provide these commodities that are used to create either their natural spices, juices or hot sauces,” explained Mr. Stow.

The Fijian and Pacific diaspora in New Zealand enjoy the taste of home and are always keen on going to their nearest dairy shop in their suburb that provides them with Fijian delicacies and brands.

This tradeshow provides the Fijian brands an opportunity to be scouted out by bigger supermarket chains and stores allowing the Fijian taste to reach the wider kiwi and Fijian customers.

“The Fiji Trade Commission is pleased to work with these exporters in helping them find new markets for their products and also help support jobs and local communities in Fiji,” said Mr. Stow.

There will be a variety of Fijian made snacks, food, spices, hot sauces and coffee to try at the Auckland Food Show this year. The companies that are participating at the show in the Fiji Booth are Fiji Fire, Daily Goods, PanPac, Bula Coffee, Aztec Farms and FMF.

Come on down to the Auckland Showgrounds to have your own feel and taste of Fiji and be part of supporting the community back home.

The Fiji Trade Commission to New Zealand proudly participated in the NZ Hair & Beauty Expo 2025, held at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland on 14–15 June. The event was an exciting platform to showcase Fijian-made natural skincare products and connect with New Zealand’s vibrant beauty and wellness industry.

Representing Fiji at the Expo were two leading skincare brands — Nama Fiji and Loloma Fiji — whose authentic, island-born products captivated both professionals and consumers.

Nama Fiji featured its unique sea grape (nama)-based skincare range, offering deep hydration and natural anti-aging benefits derived from Fiji’s pristine ocean environment. The brand stood out for its commitment to using sustainably harvested marine ingredients that promote skin health and regeneration.

Loloma Fiji introduced attendees to its luxuriously light virgin coconut oil range — a 100% organic, chemical-free skincare line suitable for the entire family, including infants. Rooted in the traditions of Fiji’s Northern Islands, Loloma’s ethos of purity and care resonated strongly with visitors seeking ethical and effective beauty solutions.

Across the two-day event, the Fijian Pavilion attracted strong foot traffic and enthusiastic engagement. Visitors were eager to sample the products, learn about their Pacific origins, and explore potential business opportunities. The Expo also generated promising leads from local retailers, stockists, and salon owners interested in expanding their offerings to include clean and sustainable skincare from Fiji.

The Fiji Trade Commission extends sincere thanks to all who visited the Pavilion, supported the brands, and contributed to the positive exposure of Fijian-made products in the New Zealand market.

We’re excited to announce that Juice Fiji, one of Fiji’s most beloved health brands, is now available for delivery across Australia through our partners at Sydney Kava!

🌿 Order Now: sydkava.com.au/collections/juice-fiji

Crafted with care by founder Mr. Panapasa Daunakamakama, Juice Fiji offers a range of natural detox juices made from fresh Fijian fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs. Inspired by traditional recipes passed down through generations, each bottle is designed to support gut health, boost energy, and improve overall well-being.

Available in:

• Sydney

• Brisbane

• Melbourne

• Adelaide

• …and across the rest of Australia!

💚 Why Juice Fiji?

• 100% natural ingredients

• No added sugar or preservatives

• Supports small Fijian farmers

• Promotes healthy, balanced lifestyles

• Convenient delivery straight to your door

Whether you’re seeking a daily health boost or a natural way to complement your diet, Juice Fiji is the perfect addition to your wellness routine.

🧃 Shake Me to Wake Me – experience the difference today!

Good news for grog lovers as Lami Kava achieved a major milestone today after launching a new dehydrated green instant kava powder at their headquarters in Veisari, Lami.

While speaking to fijivillage News, General Manager, Edward Hoerder says this launch of the new Island Nature product is something many Fijians grew up with in their younger days.

Hoerder says this includes turmeric powder, layalaya, ginger, and dehydrated instant kava.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, say the launch of these new products demonstrates the company’s vision, commitment to excellence, and drive to create greater opportunities for our farmers and agribusiness stakeholders.

Kamikamica says they are not just celebrating kava, but also the launch of a new range of wellness products such as turmeric, layalaya (wild ginger), and ginger instant powders, these products reflect Fiji’s rich natural resources and traditional knowledge, transformed into modern solutions for global health and well-being.

He says these products represent the future of Fiji’s agribusiness—a future where they add value to our raw materials, create new market opportunities and ensure that our farmers get the right price for their produce, and Fiji’s Kava Industry is raising the bar.

https://www.fijivillage.com/news/Lami-Kava-launches–instant-kava-and-herbal-powders-for-global-market-r5fx48/

Juice Fiji founder Panapasa Daunakamakama has tuned a family recipe into a thriving beverage brand.

Founder and Director of Juice Fiji, Panapasa Daunakamakama, said his product is to discipline the tastebuds instead of providing a pleasing taste.

Juice Fiji, as a brand, has become known for its healthy herbal juices.

“Our product is not just a regular juice. It combines herbs and superfoods such as ginger, turmeric, beetroot, watermelon, pineapple, and black pepper, along with rock salt. It is a unique product aimed at improving gut health, which is the foundation of our overall well-being,” Daunakamakama explained.

Juice Fiji began in 2018, and the idea came to his mind when his daughter was sick with a skin infection, which made him try alternative solutions to help her.

“I made this healthy juice for her and after a week, her skin started to heal and within a month the symptoms disappeared, and she was fine. I learnt this healthy juice from my grandmother who lived till 105 years and taught me this herbal remedies. She was a lady that always relied on herbal medicines and was very aware of what she ate and drank,” he added.

A former New Zealand rugby player turned farmer-entrepreneur who decided to turn a family recipe into a brand – Juice Fiji, with the intention to help the people of Fiji fight the battle with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), after spending 10 years in New Zealand, Daunakamakama decided to go back to Fiji and start farming to add value to the export market.

“It is my dream that through the work that I am doing locally by buying the raw materials from our Fijian farmers, producing a healthy local juice and than exporting this overseas, the cash flow comes back into Fiji and the people of Fiji benefit from this,” he said.

He acknowledged the support and assistance from the Fiji Trade Commission to Australia and New Zealand in helping him build his brand and marketing in New Zealand and expand his product into other regions.

“Juice Fiji has significantly grown its brand name in New Zealand, and we continue to support its expansion in other regions. It is always encouraging to see export-ready brands meet the demands and quality standards of the international market,” said Daniel Stow, the Fijian Trade Commissioner for Australia and New Zealand.

Daunakamakama has secured a New Zealand distributor, namely PC Foods who are the official suppliers of Juice Fiji in New Zealand. The Juice is now available in more than 30 stores across Auckland, Hamilton and Rotorua.

https://restaurantandcafe.co.nz/juice-fiji-dream-turns-into-reality/

Juice Fiji, a local company founded in 2019, has secured a distributorship in New Zealand. This expansion marks a great achievement for the company, as it now sells its unique, health-focused beverages to the New Zealand market. The company has its products available in major cities including Auckland, Hamilton, and Rotorua, with plans for further growth.

Founded by Panapasa Daunakamakama, Juice Fiji started with a mission to provide a refreshing, healthy alternative to the standard beverages on the market.

The company has grown from a small start-up to one of the emerging players in the export market, which currently employs 10 people.

“The demand from our people living overseas was overwhelming. As we were doing our local marketing, our customers, especially those in New Zealand, Australia, and the United States of America, began requesting that we export our product. Some were even taking it with them on their personal trips, but we knew we had to meet the demand more formal,” mentioned Daunakamakama.

Now, with a distributor in New Zealand, Juice Fiji is making its mark, offering a healthy and unique product to Fijians abroad who are eager to support local businesses.

“We have sent 5,000 bottles to our distributor this week alone. The demand is growing, and we are getting excellent feedback from customers. Every week, our stock is being restocked, and that is a great sign that our product is resonating with people,”Daunakamakama shared.

“The confidence our customers and the shop owners have shown in our product is invaluable. We are grateful to our people in Auckland, Hamilton, and Rotorua for supporting a local business that believes in boosting Fiji’s economy, supporting local farmers, and promoting better health through nutritious options.”

The company is already making waves in the local market in Fiji, with products available in all major supermarkets including Extra, Kundan Singh, New World, MaxVal-U, Fresh Choice, and many others.

“Our product is not just a regular juice. It combines herbs and superfoods such as ginger, turmeric, beetroot, watermelon, pineapple, and black pepper, along with rock salt. It is a unique product aimed at improving gut health, which is the foundation of overall well-being,” Daunakamakama explained.

Looking ahead, Juice Fiji plans to expand its product line and continue supporting Fiji’s agricultural sector.

“Our future plans include developing more products that benefit our agriculture and our people. We also aim to empower young Fijians to get involved in innovative food processing, as this is one of the best ways we can grow our economy,” said Daunakamakama.

Daunakamakama credited the support from the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Ministry of Agriculture, Fiji Consulate General & Trade Commission to Australia & New Zealand and Investment Fiji.

Fiji Consulate General & Trade Commission to Australia & New Zealand, Trade Commissioner Daniel Stow has commended Juice Fiji on its recent success in New Zealand.

“Juice Fiji has significantly grown its brand name in New Zealand, and we continue to support their expansion in other regions. It is always encouraging to see export ready brands meet the demands and quality standards of the international market. We look forward to continue working with Panapasa Daunakamakama and other export ready companies,” mentioned Stow.

Investment Fiji Chief Executive Officer Kamal Chetty highlighted that Juice Fiji’s expansion into New Zealand is a great example of the potential of local Fijian businesses in the global marketplace.

“Juice Fiji’s success highlights the importance of diversifying Fiji’s exports and supporting local businesses in achieving their global potential,” mentioned Chetty.

“We are excited to witness more Fijian companies expanding internationally and contributing to the economy.”

“It is also encouraging to see Juice Fiji supporting local farmers by sourcing their products, which helps stimulate economic activity,” said the Chief Executive Officer.

https://www.investmentfiji.org.fj/article/juice-fiji-expands-to-new-zealand

Sydney, Australia, October 12, 2024 – Fabrics of Modern Australia (FOMA) hosted an exquisite display of fashion creations at the IVY Sunroom in Sydney on Saturday, October 12th.

The event attracted a remarkable assembly of foreign governments, local and international artists, and key industry leaders. This year’s FOMA platform celebrated diversity, with a spotlight on artistic and cultural exhibits from various diasporas. The Fiji Consulate General and Trade Commission, as the in-country partner, presented an array of exquisite product displays, reinforcing Fiji’s position as a hub for creative excellence.

Among the distinguished Fijian participants was renowned artist and designer  Hupfeld Hoerder  with his collection, “Fiji – Pacific Fusion,” which incorporated authentic Pacific fibres, island motifs, beads, and accessories, capturing the essence of Fiji’s vibrant heritage.

The event was graced by H.E. Ajay Bhai Amrit, Fiji’s High Commissioner to Australia, who praised the opportunity to showcase Fijian creativity on an international stage. He emphasized the importance of platforms like FOMA in promoting Fiji as a leading business destination and manufacturing hub in the Pacific. “FOMA allows us not only to highlight the best of Fijian fashion and design but also to promote greater trade and economic engagement with a highly targeted international audience,” he remarked.

Mr. Daniel Stow, Fiji’s Trade Commissioner, echoed these sentiments, saying:“The Fijian apparel and fashion industry has a rich heritage, with several brands being marketed worldwide. Fiji is home to many leading designers producing quality garments that we are excited to showcase at this year’s FOMA Exhibit and Runway.”

This year’s FOMA brought together individuals passionate about fashion and design, including fashion leaders, creative enthusiasts, and those seeking to experience the beauty of multiculturalism.

Bula Premium Kava and Rum Co of Fiji by Coca-Cola were also featured at the event, offering product samples that highlighted Fiji’s rich culinary culture.

FOMA was established in 2018 by Sonia Sadiq Gandhi, entrepreneur and Chief Executive of the multi-award-winning events enterprise Gandhi Creations. FOMA’s mission is to promote the diversity of Australia’s creative industries while providing a platform for international brands to invest in and grow within the Australian market.

The Fiji Consulate General and Trade Commission’s partnership with FOMA 2024 underscores its ongoing commitment to fostering cultural diversity, promoting Fiji’s creative industries, and enhancing economic ties with Australia. Through this partnership, Fiji aims to showcase exceptional talent, forge new business connections, and explore investment opportunities in the Australian market.

https://www.fomaustralia.com.au/

The Auckland Food Show 2024 was a major success for the Fiji Booth with thousands of Fijians, Pacific Islanders and Kiwis loving and appreciating the taste of Fiji.

People came up to the Fiji Booth and acknowledged the Fiji Trade Commission and Investment Fiji team for getting the taste and delicacies of Fiji to Auckland.

Aztec Farms Director Ellen LaPorte had great interaction with people visiting her counter to taste and purchase a variety of herbal teas and Fiji-made chocolates.

“We are very pleased with the feedback we have received about our products. Many customers are surprised that Fiji companies are making such premium quality products.

Our products are all natural; herbal tea, spices and chocolate. We observed that our products appeal to both young and mature people who are health conscious,” she said and added that many visitors were aware of the health benefits of turmeric and moringa.

“Many others were lured by the strong natural flavours of our teas,” Ms LaPorte said.

According to her, many visitors loved the dark chocolate with cardamom, which is healthy.

“Where can we purchase these products in New Zealand?” visitors asked.

“This is an exceptional compliment for us as it motivates us to find a New Zealand distributor who understands our products and our customer market,” she said.

Fiji Fire Directors Sam Campbell and Gauthier Mescam had a lot of traction at their counter as people had heard their hot sauce on New Zealand’s Hit Radio and were eager to taste it. During the two days, they received many inquiries.

A platform for interaction

“The Auckland Food Show has given us a platform to interact with our target audience and demographic. Brooke Fine Foods is our New Zealand distributor and has rolled us out at Bin Inn Supermarkets. Our rollout will continue throughout August,” Mr Campbell said.

FMF Foods Ltd Group Export Manager Rakesh Raju acknowledged the Fiji Trade Commission to Australia & New Zealand and Investment Fiji for providing them with a platform to engage with Kiwis and receive feedback on their new products.

“One of the benefits of attending this show was that we were able to interact with consumers and get their feedback about our products. This has increased our brand awareness in the New Zealand market,” he said.

Similar gratitude was expressed by the Bula Coffee team.

Visitors were pleasantly surprised that such high-quality coffee beans were grown and harvested in Fiji.

“Even with the generous sponsorship from the Fiji Trade Commission and Investment Fiji, it is still a considerable financial investment for our business and although we will not see this in profits during this show – we anticipate that the advertising and networks made during the week will pay us back in the long run,” Representative Sikeli Bola said.

He said that his company had positive feedback from people attending the Show.

Surprising Coffee!

“We hope to grow our contact and expand the business. We are excited to meet people in the marketing sector who can potentially help us to reach more coffee (and Fiji) lovers around the world,” he said.

PanPac Distributors Ltd is a subsidiary of C J Patel Pte Ltd, a distributor of Fiji’s leading brands such as Jasons Bongo, Skipper Tuna, Angel Gold Mackerel, Rewa Fun Flavour, Sugars of Fiji, Fiji Beers, bounty Rum and Pops drinks.

“Some of these brands are available through major retail chain stores such as Pak N Save, New World and Woolworths,” General Manager Rajiv Prasad said.

Daily Goods received an encouraging public response for their immunity shots purchased from major supermarkets. The benefits of turmeric and ginger in tea or other beverages were also highlighted at the Show.

Source: https://indiannewslink.co.nz/the-goodness-of-fiji-taste-at-the-auckland-food-show/

The owners of Fiji Fire are delighted to announce that their hot sauce will now be widely available in stores across New Zealand after securing Brooke Fine Foods, one of the largest distributors in New Zealand, as the official distributor of the Fiji Fire Bongo Chilli hot sauce.

The hot sauce has been the talk of the town on Radio Hit, the sister company of NZME, after the station announcers used Fiji Fire hot sauce as a giveaway prize for their listeners.

Sam Campbell and Gauthier Mescam, the owners of the Down to Earth (Fiji) Pte Ltd, which makes the sauce in Fiji, take great pride in how Fiji Fire hot sauce is produced. Their dedicated staff batch craft the sauce by hand using locally sourced ingredients fresh from the farm.

Since the beginning the Fiji Fire team have firmly believed in giving back to the local community and helping them in any way they can. They provide farmers, community groups and local families with bongo chilli seedlings for free, and then purchase their crop.

“There are many benefits to life in Fiji, living the dream in paradise but there are also many factors that can make running an agriculture processing business difficult – climate change affecting the seasonal vegetable cycles, longer wet seasons affecting yields, increased shipping costs for export to name a few.

Our main aim with Fiji Fire is to give back to our local community. Our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) seedling program has been the most rewarding part of running the business. We give free Bongo chilli seedlings to local families, community groups, village groups or small holding farmers. We buy the chilies all year round and set a fair price. When we started, we had a hand full of farmers, now we have over 30 different groups that fulfil our chilli needs,” explained Mr. Campbell.

The proud Fijian was grateful to the Fiji Trade Commission to New Zealand team for assisting him in amplifying the awareness and branding of the Fiji Fire Bongo chilli hot sauce and looking for opportunities to market the hot sauce in New Zealand through news media articles and radio show giveaways that opened bigger opportunities for the company.

“With our radio giveaway, Brooke Fine Foods coming onboard as our distributor, our attendance at the Auckland Food Show 2024 and being available in Bin Inn from July of this year, we feel that now Fiji Fire will establish itself as a household staple in NZ!

“Fiji Fire is looking forward to breaking into the New Zealand market. We have had a lot of interest from NZ and people who have tried or bought Fiji Fire whilst on holiday in Fiji and have been looking to buy our product in NZ.” highlighted Mr. Campbell.

Fiji Fire hot sauce is available now not only in Fiji but also in Australia, UK, Japan, USA, Hong Kong and New Zealand.