14 Feb 2008

Fiji water exporter remains optimistic for business despite fight with customs authorities

6:25 pm on 14 February 2008

The company exporting Fiji Water remains optimistic about its export operations despite being embroiled in court action with authorities.

Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority claims the country is missing out on revenue given the product's value, and wants the company exporting the product, Natural Waters Viti Limited, to pay more.

After FIRCA moved to block exports, the court ordered the company to pay a bond for exports to resume while the court case continues.

Company spokesperson Tom Mooney says he remains positive about the water export trade, which he says is great for Fiji.

"And its really fun to see something go from absolutely nothing 13 years ago, to a major commercial success in a few major markets as recently as 3 to 4 years ago, to now really a brand with a global footprint. I think it is great for Fiji at a time when some of the important industries in Fiji are not heading in the right direction and we've been able to pick up some of the slack when it comes to exports."

Tom Mooney