Ministry of Fisheries and Forests officials with representatives from China in the Bamboo trading,Hydro power and Aqua Culture sector at the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests in Toorak yesterday. Photo: VILIMONI VAGANALAU. 

A seven-member Chinese delegation is here currently to discuss the utilization of bamboo and possible industries which could be created using bamboo.

Deputy Conservator for Ministry of Fisheries and Forests, Semi Dranibaka, in welcoming the delegation yesterday stressed the bamboo Industry will have a bright future.

One project already in planning stages is starting up a factory to manufacture furniture using bamboo.

Speaking at the event, Ding Xingcui, the chief scientist from China National Bamboo Research Center highlighted on the advantages of starting with this project.

“The price of materials like furniture will be cheaper when compared to furniture made from other woods,” Mr Ding said.

“We can make beds, tables, chairs and even jewellery from bamboo and this will definitely help the communities we will train to earn and master their skills at the same time.”

He also mentioned the importance the cheaper price would have on the locals.

“Fijians will be able to access a range of furniture at a cheaper price and this will benefit them greatly,” he said.

Additionally, Mr Dranibaka also highlighted that people needed to be educated on the sustainability of this evolving industry.

“The sustainability of this industry needs to be addressed and people need to be educated so we do not have a loss once business normal starts for this industry,” he said.

Development and work in this sector is expected to start by the end of this year whereby the 10 different Bamboo grass, currently available in Fiji, will be used to make different furniture.

(Source: fijisun.com.fj, Author: Kathrin Krishna, Edited by: RACHNA LAL)