The first shipment of woodchips worth around $15 million is expected to be exported to Japan through the Wairiki Port in Bua by mid September to coincide with its official opening.

Interim Minister for Forest Joketani Cokanasiga has confirmed to Fijivillage news that the Tropic Wood mill in Bua is now in operation and is estimated to produce around 3000 tonnes of woodchips a day.