12 Jul 2006

Shell Fiji sold to French oil giant TOTAL

5:33 am on 12 July 2006

Shell has sold its operations in Fiji and Tonga to the French company, TOTAL, the fourth largest oil and gas trader in the world.

Shells Fiji's general manager, Peter Walsh, has told Fiji TV that TOTAL will take over their operation with only the company name changing.

The jobs of staff will not be affected.

TOTAL's vice president for business development in Asia, Stephane Michel, says their investment is long term and they look forward to having a presence on the ground at the beginning of next year.

TOTAL will need government approval and licences to operate in Fiji and that is expected in the next few months.