Japan offers slipway to Fiji

The Japanese government is interested in building a 4000-tonne slipway in Fiji next year, a project that is expected to save and generate millions of dollars for the Fijian government. The nation’s sole slipway at Walu Bay operated by Fiji Ships and Heavy Industries Limited (FSHIL) can only cater for vessels up to 1000 tonnes. While the Japanese Government is showing interest in building a bigger slipway, it has indicated its priority was an information technology centre at the University of the South Pacific and the proposed fisheries jetty at Lami.

Preliminary response indicates that the shipyard project will be considered for 2006. The ultimate goal is for FSHIL to be a one-stop-shop for all vessels that berth in the local ports. FSHIL was also trying to acquire a second-hand floating deck that would accommodate vessels up to 3000 tonnes or four to five smaller vessels at any one time.