The Fijian government is making efforts to revitalize the cocoa industry, which has the potential to boost the country’s economy, according to Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu. He expressed optimism that the industry could return to its former success, which brought in approximately $22 million annually three decades ago.
Rayalu shared his vision during a visit to the Fiji Rice Limited mill in Dereketi, Macuata, emphasizing that the cocoa sector has the capacity to reclaim its past prominence.
Earlier this week, he also toured the Wasawasa Chocolate Factory in Savusavu, underscoring the importance of collaboration with local businesses to rejuvenate the industry. Rayalu highlighted that the ministry aims to support companies like Wasawasa to foster growth within the cocoa sector.
He noted that most cocoa processing facilities are located in Viti and Vanua Levu, and pointed to a successful historical model, referencing the nucleus and pilot projects that previously bolstered the industry. Rayalu lamented the previous government’s shift away from cocoa production due to falling international prices, suggesting that this decision was a misstep that the current administration intends to rectify.
The ministry is actively working with farmers to enhance cocoa output and is focused on supporting value-added production to ensure that the industry remains a viable income source for farmers and local communities. Currently, the cocoa sector caters primarily to local market demands and has not yet resumed exports.