A New Zealand-based Kava export company BiloVinaka has thanked Investment Fiji for providing them with the confidence of establishing its brand and venturing into the business world.

BiloVinaka was launched in2018 following Managing Director Praveena Prasad-Deo’s in-depth discussions, numerous meetings, and guidance from the Investment Fiji team during a road show in Wellington, NZ.

“Investment Fiji not only provided us with a suitable business concept but they also secured international markets for our products,” stated Anish Deo, Business Development Manager at BiloVinaka.

The company sources Kava from local Fijian growers to supply customers in New Zealand and the United States of America. They have recently merged with Mana Kava to form BiloVinaka Mana Kava to cater to the Australian market.

“This concept not only allows international customers to enjoy high-quality, refreshing, and relaxing Kava but it also supports the local kava farmers to distribute their products worldwide,” he said.

Deo was recently in Fiji where he met Investment Fiji Acting Chief Executive Officer Kamal Chetty and his team to discuss the way forward.

“We faced a few minor operational challenges during the COVID-19 global pandemic however Investment Fiji’s support and guidance allowed us to maintain access to key markets and helped us broaden our reach in the Australian market.”

“The visit to Fiji also enabled me to reconnect with my suppliers post COVID-19 pandemic.”

Meanwhile, Deo hopes to diversify their products to further International markets in the future.

Investment Fiji Acting Chief Executive Officer Kamal Chetty said Kava has been one of the top export commodities in recent years and the demand has surged both nationally and internationally.

“At Investment Fiji, we are passionate about assisting new businesses and connecting them to the right market. We are also committed to helping existing entrepreneurs as they adjust to the business environment post-COVID-19,” mentioned Chetty.

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