![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.everycar.jp\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/ChatGPT-Image-2026\u5e748\u670818\u65e5-11_14_08.jpg\")
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A 4WD truck makes sense when traction limits business more than fuel cost or purchase price.<\/p>\n
That can happen on wet farm tracks, steep access roads, gravel routes, and soft ground.<\/p>\n
However, 4WD is not necessary for every Fiji business.<\/p>\n
A truck working mainly on sealed roads around Suva may gain little from the extra drivetrain.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, a farm operator in rural Viti Levu may depend on it during wet conditions.<\/p>\n
Vanua Levu operators may also value 4WD where farm access includes gravel, slopes, or seasonal mud.<\/p>\n
Therefore, buyers should study the actual route before choosing the drivetrain.<\/p>\n
The right 4WD truck should combine traction, payload, ground clearance, suitable tyres, and practical local maintenance.<\/p>\n
It should improve access without creating unnecessary running costs.<\/p>\n
Many buyers describe a 4WD truck as a stronger truck.<\/p>\n
That description can be misleading.<\/p>\n
Four-wheel drive mainly improves traction.<\/p>\n
It sends driving force to both axles when the system operates.<\/p>\n
This can help where a rear-wheel-drive truck loses grip.<\/p>\n
Typical examples include:<\/p>\n
However, 4WD does not increase legal payload automatically.<\/p>\n
It also does not make poor tyres safe.<\/p>\n
Therefore, traction should form only one part of the buying decision.<\/p>\n
Fiji road conditions vary greatly by location.<\/p>\n
Urban roads and farm tracks should not be treated as the same environment.<\/p>\n
In central Suva, many businesses mainly use paved commercial roads.<\/p>\n
In that case, 2WD may remain the more economical choice.<\/p>\n
However, rural Viti Levu can create different requirements.<\/p>\n
Farm entrances may include unsealed sections.<\/p>\n
Heavy rain can also reduce grip.<\/p>\n
Construction access may become soft or uneven.<\/p>\n
Likewise, some Vanua Levu businesses may travel between sealed roads and agricultural properties.<\/p>\n
For these mixed routes, 4WD can offer useful extra traction.<\/p>\n
A farm truck often leaves the main road.<\/p>\n
That changes the vehicle requirements immediately.<\/p>\n
The truck may need to cross:<\/p>\n
A normal 2WD truck can still handle many farm routes.<\/p>\n
However, traction can disappear when the rear tyres lose grip.<\/p>\n
This is especially important when the cargo body is lightly loaded.<\/p>\n
A suitable 4WD system can improve access in those situations.<\/p>\n
Four-wheel drive adds extra mechanical components.<\/p>\n
Those components need maintenance.<\/p>\n
Possible additional parts include:<\/p>\n
These parts can increase servicing cost.<\/p>\n
They can also create more repair points as the truck ages.<\/p>\n
Therefore, buyers should pay for 4WD only when the route justifies it.<\/p>\n
Many rural businesses do not need a large truck.<\/p>\n
A compact Japanese light truck can be easier on narrow property roads.<\/p>\n
It can also use less fuel than a medium-duty truck.<\/p>\n
Useful model families to compare include the Isuzu Elf<\/a>, Hino Dutro<\/a>, Mitsubishi Canter<\/a>, Toyota Dyna<\/a>, and Nissan Atlas<\/a>.<\/p>\n When a suitable 4WD specification appears in Japanese stock, compare it carefully with the 2WD alternative.<\/p>\n Do not assume every chassis or generation offers the same drivetrain.<\/p>\n Always check the actual vehicle specification.<\/p>\n The Isuzu Elf can suit many smaller commercial jobs.<\/p>\n Its cab-over design keeps the truck relatively compact.<\/p>\n This can help on narrow access roads and smaller farm yards.<\/p>\n Useful body types may include:<\/p>\n For rural Fiji, a flatbed can offer strong flexibility.<\/p>\n It can carry produce, tools, fertilizer, pumps, or small machinery.<\/p>\n A dump body can support landscaping and smaller construction jobs.<\/p>\n However, buyers should check the exact 4WD specification before purchase.<\/p>\n The Hino Dutro can also suit a rural business that needs light-truck capacity.<\/p>\n A compact body may work well where the route includes small bridges or tight turns.<\/p>\n A flatbed can support produce and farm supply.<\/p>\n A dump version may help with property development.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, a double cab can carry a work crew.<\/p>\n When considering a 4WD Dutro, confirm the exact chassis and drivetrain system.<\/p>\n Also, check local parts access before buying.<\/p>\n The Mitsubishi Canter offers many commercial configurations.<\/p>\n This makes it useful for farmers, tradespeople, and smaller contractors.<\/p>\n A 4WD specification may be attractive where access roads become slippery.<\/p>\n However, buyers should still consider body length.<\/p>\n A long body can reduce manoeuvrability on narrow roads.<\/p>\n For rural work, a shorter wheelbase can sometimes provide more practical value.<\/p>\n The Toyota Dyna can suit businesses that need a simple light commercial truck.<\/p>\n It may work for produce delivery, tools, maintenance, and local trade.<\/p>\n A compact body can also help around farms and smaller villages.<\/p>\n When comparing a 4WD Dyna, check the following:<\/p>\n The best specification is the one that fits the route.<\/p>\n The Nissan Atlas can also appear in useful light-commercial specifications.<\/p>\n It may suit small delivery, farm supply, and service businesses.<\/p>\n However, model generations vary widely.<\/p>\n Therefore, buyers should not judge the truck by the Atlas name alone.<\/p>\n Confirm the exact chassis code and drivetrain.<\/p>\n Also, check whether local workshops can support the engine and 4WD system.<\/p>\n A truck can have four-wheel drive but still sit too low for the route.<\/p>\n Ground clearance matters on:<\/p>\n Low components can hit the road surface.<\/p>\n This can damage:<\/p>\n Therefore, buyers should request underbody photographs.<\/p>\n They should also confirm actual ride height when possible.<\/p>\n A good 4WD system cannot overcome worn tyres.<\/p>\n Tyres create the contact with the road.<\/p>\n Therefore, rural Fiji buyers should inspect them carefully.<\/p>\n Check:<\/p>\n A road-focused tyre may perform poorly in deep mud.<\/p>\n However, an aggressive tyre can create more noise and rolling resistance.<\/p>\n The tyre should match the real working surface.<\/p>\n Some operators want larger tyres for rural work.<\/p>\n However, oversized tyres can create new problems.<\/p>\n They may affect:<\/p>\n They may also contact the body or suspension.<\/p>\n Therefore, use appropriate tyre sizes and professional advice.<\/p>\n A long truck can carry more cargo.<\/p>\n However, it also needs more space to turn.<\/p>\n This matters on rural properties.<\/p>\n Access roads may have:<\/p>\n Therefore, body length should not be the only goal.<\/p>\n A shorter wheelbase can make daily work easier.<\/p>\n A truck may need to enter a farm from a raised road shoulder.<\/p>\n The front bumper or steps can touch the ground.<\/p>\n Rear overhang can cause another problem.<\/p>\n A long flatbed may scrape when crossing a sharp slope.<\/p>\n Therefore, buyers should consider:<\/p>\n These measurements can matter more than engine power.<\/p>\n Extra traction can create confidence.<\/p>\n However, drivers still need to understand the road.<\/p>\n Wet slopes can remain dangerous.<\/p>\n Soft road edges can collapse.<\/p>\n Loaded trucks also need more braking distance.<\/p>\n Therefore, drivers should adjust speed to:<\/p>\n Four-wheel drive helps movement.<\/p>\n It does not shorten every stopping distance.<\/p>\n Farm businesses often carry heavy products.<\/p>\n These may include:<\/p>\n Therefore, buyers should calculate actual cargo weight.<\/p>\n Do not overload a light 4WD truck because it has good traction.<\/p>\n Overloading increases stress on:<\/p>\n A normal engine inspection is not enough.<\/p>\n Four-wheel-drive components need their own checks.<\/p>\n Before buying, inspect:<\/p>\n Oil leaks can signal future repair work.<\/p>\n Unusual noises also deserve investigation.<\/p>\n Photos alone cannot confirm drivetrain operation.<\/p>\n Therefore, request a short video when practical.<\/p>\n Ask the exporter to show:<\/p>\n Not every system works in the same way.<\/p>\n Therefore, the exact vehicle should be tested correctly.<\/p>\n Rural operation puts more demand on drivetrain components.<\/p>\n Leaks should not be ignored.<\/p>\n Request underbody photos around:<\/p>\n Small stains may need further inspection.<\/p>\n Heavy leakage deserves attention before purchase.<\/p>\n Uneven roads place more stress on the suspension.<\/p>\n Therefore, rural buyers should check:<\/p>\n Broken or weakened springs can cause downtime.<\/p>\n They can also affect tyre wear and handling.<\/p>\n Loose steering becomes more noticeable on uneven roads.<\/p>\n Before purchase, check for:<\/p>\n A 4WD front axle can add mechanical complexity.<\/p>\n Therefore, steering and axle inspection should receive extra attention.<\/p>\n Climbing steep roads under load creates engine heat.<\/p>\n Therefore, cooling-system condition matters.<\/p>\n Inspect:<\/p>\n A truck that performs well on flat roads may struggle under heavy uphill loads.<\/p>\n Therefore, start with a healthy cooling system.<\/p>\n Rural work does not always require maximum engine power.<\/p>\n Controlled low-speed movement can matter more.<\/p>\n This is useful when:<\/p>\n Some 4WD trucks may offer low-range gearing.<\/p>\n Others may use a simpler transfer system.<\/p>\n Confirm the exact drivetrain before purchase.<\/p>\n Manual trucks can provide direct control at low speeds.<\/p>\n Experienced drivers may value this on steep access roads.<\/p>\n However, clutch condition becomes important.<\/p>\n Repeated hill starts can increase clutch wear.<\/p>\n Before buying, check:<\/p>\n An automatic or automated transmission can also work well.<\/p>\n Local maintenance support should guide the choice.<\/p>\n Flatbeds offer simple loading and flexible cargo use.<\/p>\n Farm operators can carry:<\/p>\n Drop-side bodies can make manual loading easier.<\/p>\n However, cargo must be secured correctly.<\/p>\n Rain protection may also be necessary.<\/p>\n A small dump truck can support property improvements.<\/p>\n It may carry:<\/p>\n Four-wheel drive can help the truck reach softer work areas.<\/p>\n However, the hydraulic system must be in good condition.<\/p>\n Check:<\/p>\n Some rural businesses need to move workers and equipment together.<\/p>\n A double cab can help.<\/p>\n It may suit:<\/p>\n However, a double cab uses chassis space.<\/p>\n This often reduces available cargo-body length.<\/p>\n Therefore, compare crew needs with cargo needs.<\/p>\n Brand alone should not decide the purchase.<\/p>\n Use the same checklist for every candidate.<\/p>\n The best truck may not be the newest one.<\/p>\n It may be the truck with the most practical specification.<\/p>\n A broken truck cannot earn money.<\/p>\n Rural businesses may also be farther from specialist workshops.<\/p>\n Therefore, confirm parts support before purchase.<\/p>\n Ask local mechanics about:<\/p>\n Also, ask how quickly uncommon parts can reach the island.<\/p>\n Vanua Levu buyers should consider the complete maintenance chain.<\/p>\n A truck may be purchased through Japan and arrive via Fiji’s shipping network.<\/p>\n However, long-term value depends on local servicing.<\/p>\n Before buying, confirm:<\/p>\n Fiji Ports identifies Malau as a port on Vanua Levu.<\/p>\n However, buyers should confirm the actual vehicle-shipping and domestic transport route for their shipment.<\/p>\n A business may spend most of its time on sealed roads.<\/p>\n It may only enter a farm for the final kilometre.<\/p>\n That final section should guide the 4WD decision.<\/p>\n Ask:<\/p>\n If the difficult section rarely causes problems, 2WD may remain enough.<\/p>\n Four-wheel drive adds weight and mechanical resistance.<\/p>\n Actual fuel consumption depends on many factors.<\/p>\n These include:<\/p>\n Therefore, do not buy more drivetrain than the business needs.<\/p>\n A simpler 2WD truck may cost less to operate on sealed routes.<\/p>\n Rural use can expose the chassis to mud and water.<\/p>\n Coastal conditions can add another corrosion concern.<\/p>\n Therefore, start with a clean chassis when possible.<\/p>\n Request photographs of:<\/p>\n Heavy existing corrosion can create long-term repair costs.<\/p>\n Good maintenance continues after import.<\/p>\n Mud can hold moisture against the chassis.<\/p>\n It can also hide leaks or damaged parts.<\/p>\n After heavy farm use, inspect and clean:<\/p>\n Regular cleaning also makes inspections easier.<\/p>\n Four-wheel drive reduces the chance of getting stuck.<\/p>\n It does not remove the risk.<\/p>\n Businesses working away from main roads may consider carrying suitable recovery equipment.<\/p>\n Useful items can include:<\/p>\n Recovery equipment must match the truck’s weight.<\/p>\n Unsafe recovery can cause serious damage or injury.<\/p>\n A commercial truck can weigh far more than a passenger SUV.<\/p>\n Therefore, recovery equipment must have suitable ratings.<\/p>\n Confirm:<\/p>\n Professional recovery is safer when conditions exceed the operator’s equipment.<\/p>\n Wet conditions can expose weaknesses quickly.<\/p>\n Before regular rural work, check:<\/p>\n Do not wait until a difficult route exposes a mechanical problem.<\/p>\n A 4WD truck may sit higher than a comparable 2WD specification.<\/p>\n Special tyres can also affect dimensions.<\/p>\n Therefore, request exact measurements before shipping.<\/p>\n Freight can depend on:<\/p>\n Never estimate freight from another truck of the same model.<\/p>\n Suva and Lautoka are Fiji’s two main cargo ports.<\/p>\n However, port choice should follow the actual shipping service.<\/p>\n A rural Viti Levu buyer should compare:<\/p>\n A cheaper sea freight may not create the cheapest total route.<\/p>\n Local delivery distance can change the result.<\/p>\n The truck must qualify for import before shipment.<\/p>\n Fiji Revenue and Customs Service states that used or reconditioned goods trucks must meet Euro 4 compliance under the 2026 criteria.<\/p>\n Used or reconditioned vehicles generally require an Import Licence before shipment.<\/p>\n Therefore, check the exact vehicle before committing to the purchase.<\/p>\n Important details include:<\/p>\n FRCS requires JEVIC Inspection for applicable vehicles coming from Japan.<\/p>\n Therefore, buyers should plan the approval process before shipping.<\/p>\n A practical sequence is:<\/p>\n A compact light truck is often the best starting point.<\/p>\n Look for:<\/p>\n The truck should fit both the farm road and the normal cargo.<\/p>\n Produce collection often needs easy loading and repeated short trips.<\/p>\n A drop-side flatbed can be practical.<\/p>\n Prioritise:<\/p>\n Four-wheel drive helps only when traction is a genuine problem.<\/p>\n A flatbed or dump truck may suit small construction businesses.<\/p>\n For these operators, check:<\/p>\n A short wheelbase can help around difficult job sites.<\/p>\n Utility crews often carry people, tools, and equipment.<\/p>\n A double-cab flatbed can be useful.<\/p>\n However, the body becomes shorter.<\/p>\n Therefore, confirm how much cargo space remains after the crew cab.<\/p>\n Serviceability should lead the selection.<\/p>\n Choose a model that local workshops can maintain.<\/p>\n Common parts can offer more value than unusual specifications.<\/p>\n Also, confirm the full shipping and onward transport route before purchase.<\/p>\n Each mistake can increase the total operating cost.<\/p>\n EVERY can support Japan-side vehicle search and export preparation.<\/p>\n Support can include:<\/p>\n However, final Fiji import approval, Customs clearance, registration, and local road-use requirements remain local processes.<\/p>\n Buyers should confirm these matters with the relevant Fiji authorities.<\/p>\n Browse Japanese used commercial vehicles through the EVERYCAR.jp Stock List<\/a>.<\/p>\n When looking for rural work, confirm whether the actual unit has 4WD.<\/p>\n Then compare ground clearance, tyres, payload, wheelbase, condition, and maintenance support.<\/p>\n For Japan-side vehicle information or a quotation, use the EVERY inquiry page<\/a>.<\/p>\n A 4WD truck can be an excellent business tool when road access genuinely requires extra traction.<\/p>\n However, 4WD should solve a real problem.<\/p>\n For rural Viti Levu, consider wet tracks, slopes, farm entrances, and the final kilometres of each route.<\/p>\n For Vanua Levu, serviceability and parts access deserve extra attention.<\/p>\n For smaller farms, a compact Japanese light truck may offer the best balance.<\/p>\n For rural contractors, body type and payload become more important.<\/p>\n In every case, tyres, wheelbase, ground clearance, brakes, cooling, and drivetrain condition matter greatly.<\/p>\n Most importantly, verify that the actual truck has the required 4WD specification.<\/p>\n Then confirm Fiji import eligibility before purchasing and shipping it.<\/p>\n Information checked:<\/strong> August 2026.<\/p>\n Import regulations, taxes, fees and procedures may change. Please confirm the latest requirements with the relevant authorities or a licensed customs agent in Fiji before purchasing or shipping a vehicle.<\/p>\nIsuzu Elf for Farm and Rural Business Use<\/h2>\n
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Hino Dutro for Mixed Road and Farm Work<\/h2>\n
Mitsubishi Canter for Contractors and Rural Access<\/h2>\n
Toyota Dyna for Smaller Rural Businesses<\/h2>\n
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Nissan Atlas for Compact Commercial Work<\/h2>\n
Ground Clearance Can Matter as Much as 4WD<\/h2>\n
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Tyres Can Decide Whether 4WD Actually Works<\/h2>\n
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Do Not Fit Oversized Tyres Without Checking the Truck<\/h2>\n
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Wheelbase Is Critical on Narrow Farm Roads<\/h2>\n
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Approach Angle Matters on Steep Property Entrances<\/h2>\n
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4WD Does Not Replace Careful Driving<\/h2>\n
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Payload Still Matters on Rural Routes<\/h2>\n
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4WD Drivetrain Condition Deserves a Separate Inspection<\/h2>\n
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Ask for a 4WD Operation Video<\/h2>\n
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Check Differential and Transfer-Case Oil Leaks<\/h2>\n
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Suspension Condition Matters on Rough Access Roads<\/h2>\n
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Check the Steering System Carefully<\/h2>\n
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Cooling Is Important on Steep Rural Routes<\/h2>\n
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Low Gearing Can Be More Useful Than High Power<\/h2>\n
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Manual Transmissions Can Suit Rural Work<\/h2>\n
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Flatbed Bodies Often Work Well for Farms<\/h2>\n
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Dump Bodies Can Help Rural Construction and Farm Development<\/h2>\n
\n
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Double-Cab 4WD Trucks Can Help Work Crews<\/h2>\n
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4WD Canter, Elf, Dutro, Dyna or Atlas: How Should You Compare Them?<\/h2>\n
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Parts Availability Matters More in Rural Areas<\/h2>\n
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Vanua Levu Buyers Should Plan Maintenance Before Importing<\/h2>\n
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Viti Levu Buyers Should Match the Truck to the Actual Side Roads<\/h2>\n
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Fuel Consumption Should Still Be Considered<\/h2>\n
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Check the Chassis for Rust Before Importing<\/h2>\n
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Wash Mud from the Undercarriage Regularly<\/h2>\n
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Carry Recovery Equipment for Remote Work<\/h2>\n
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Do Not Use Ordinary Passenger-Vehicle Recovery Gear on Heavy Trucks<\/h2>\n
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Prepare the Truck for the Wet Season<\/h2>\n
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Shipping Size Still Matters for 4WD Trucks<\/h2>\n
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Suva or Lautoka: Plan the Arrival Around the Final Destination<\/h2>\n
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Check 2026 Fiji Import Eligibility Before Buying a 4WD Truck<\/h2>\n
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Japanese Vehicles Need the Correct Pre-Shipment Process<\/h2>\n
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Best 4WD Truck for a Small Farm<\/h2>\n
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Best 4WD Truck for Farm Produce Collection<\/h2>\n
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Best 4WD Truck for Rural Construction<\/h2>\n
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Best 4WD Truck for Utility and Maintenance Teams<\/h2>\n
Best 4WD Truck for Vanua Levu Businesses<\/h2>\n
Five Mistakes Fiji 4WD Truck Buyers Should Avoid<\/h2>\n
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Pre-Purchase Checklist for a Japanese 4WD Truck<\/h2>\n
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How EVERY Supports Fiji Buyers Looking for Japanese 4WD Trucks<\/h2>\n
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Search Japanese Used Trucks for Fiji<\/h2>\n
Related Fiji Guides<\/h2>\n
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Official Fiji Information to Confirm<\/h2>\n
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Final Advice for Fiji Rural and Farm Buyers<\/h2>\n
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