FHCL Completes FPIC Consultations in Vanua Levu

The Fiji Hardwood Corporation Limited (FHCL) has successfully completed its Free, Prior, Informed, and Consent (FPIC) consultations in Vanua Levu. This is an important step in the company’s ongoing commitment to responsible and sustainable forestry practices.

Led by Operations Manager Manasa Luvunakoro, the FHCL team, along with representatives from the Fiji Mahogany Trust, the Ministry of Forestry, the Ministry of i-Taukei Affairs, and the iTaukei Land Trust Board, visited six locations across the northern region. These visits were part of FHCL’s ongoing efforts to ensure that landowners are fully informed and actively engaged in decisions regarding the use of their land for forestry activities.

FPIC is an essential process that gives landowners the right to be properly informed, consulted, and to freely decide whether to give their consent before any forestry operations begin on their land. This includes providing clear information on what the project involves, what benefits and impacts it may bring, and what their rights are throughout the process. The aim is to ensure landowners are not only aware but also comfortable and confident in the decisions being made.

This process is especially important as FHCL works toward achieving Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification—a globally recognized standard for responsible forest management. FSC requires companies to engage openly with local communities and landowners to make sure their views are heard and respected before any major forest activities take place.

In Vanua Levu, FPIC consultations were held at Naraiyalagi Village, Holy Cross Community Hall, Nasarawaqa Village, Vusaratu Village, Sese Village, and Naodamu Hall. These sessions gave mahogany landowners the chance to learn more about FHCL’s plans, ask questions, raise concerns, and suggest ideas to make sure their interests and traditions are considered.

FHCL General Manager Mr. Semi Dranibaka stressed the importance of the FPIC program in building strong and respectful relationships with landowners.

“This process ensures that landowners are given a fair opportunity to voice their opinions and make informed choices. Their input is crucial, not only for our operations but also for building trust and lasting partnerships,” he said.

Mr. Dranibaka also thanked all stakeholders and landowners for their active involvement and support.

“FHCL cannot succeed on its own. Engaging with landowners and listening to their feedback helps guide our work in the right direction. It shows that we put their interests first before we make any decisions about land use,” he added.

With the Vanua Levu consultations now complete, the FPIC program will move to Viti Levu later this month. FHCL remains committed to maintaining open communication, transparency, and respect for landowners as part of its responsible forest management practices.