Kaiming Agro Processing celebrates women in Fiji’s spice industry and launches new accommodation facilities

Kaiming Agro Processing Ltd today marked International Women’s Day by celebrating the vital role of women in Fiji’s spice industry and officially launching new women’s accommodation facilities in Navua.

Founder Calvin Qiu highlighted the company’s commitment to gender equality, with women making up 130 of its 180 employees across all levels of production and leadership.

The new accommodation, established in partnership with the Australian and New Zealand-funded Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus (PHAMA Plus) Program, provides a safe and comfortable space for female workers who travel long distances, significantly improving job satisfaction and retention. 

As part of this partnership, Kaiming Agro Processing also introduced a Workplace Domestic Violence Policy, offering staff and management training to create a safer and more supportive workplace.

Factory administrator Elina Tawayaga, who also serves as the company’s Domestic Violence Focal Point, provides guidance and support to women in the workplace. She ensures they are aware of their rights under the policy, which includes domestic violence leave, salary advances, and safe accommodation for those who feel unsafe at home.

“Just knowing this policy exists is empowering,” said Tawayaga at the launch. “I tell the women who come to me that it’s there to protect them. It provides leave, salary advances, and accommodation if needed. Having this in place gives women peace of mind, knowing they have support when they need it.”

“Through programs like PHAMA Plus, Australia is proud to support agribusinesses in Fiji and across the Pacific to foster gender equality, safe workplaces and inclusive business practices,” said Emily Wilson from the Australian High Commission.

“When businesses invest in equity and employee well-being, they don’t just create safer environments—they also see stronger growth, higher productivity, and long-term success.”

“New Zealand is incredibly proud to support Kaiming Agro through PHAMA Plus. Congratulations to Kaiming Agro for fostering a gender-inclusive workplace – this initiative will have a positive, lasting impact on both your employees and your business. This is a true example of leadership that is supporting decent work and Accelerating Action for women’s economic empowerment,” said Jane Anderson from the New Zealand High Commission.

This PHAMA Plus support complements a broader partnership to help grow Kaiming’s export business.

About PHAMA Plus

The Australian and New Zealand-funded Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus (PHAMA Plus) Program works across nine Pacific countries (Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu) to foster innovative, inclusive, and resilient export market systems.

For more information, contact Theresa Fox, Communications Manager at t.fox@phamaplus.com.au