Connecting Harvests with Horizons: A New Initiative Bridges Agriculture and Tourism in the Pacific

Local producers in the Pacific are set to benefit from targeted mentoring aimed at connecting their agricultural outputs with tourism demands, thanks to a new regional initiative spearheaded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Expert Federico Mattei emphasizes that this project aspires to establish tourism routes across different countries, creating a symbiotic relationship between food production and tourism.

Mattei highlights that the goal is to equip producers with the necessary skills to meet the evolving needs of the tourism sector while ensuring that tourism benefits from local agricultural practices. This approach focuses on sustainable tourism that supports local agri-food systems, as noted by Sara Manuelli from the FAO Mountain Partnership. She cites the project’s aim to foster inclusive development that uplifts communities rather than solely pursuing economic benefits.

The initiative is a collaborative effort involving UN Tourism, the Mountain Partnership, the South Pacific Tourism Organization, and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation. By linking farmers directly with tourism operators, the project endeavors not only to provide tourists with authentic local cuisine but also to stimulate the local economy, thereby reducing dependency on imported food and minimizing economic leakage—a challenge previously recognized in similar initiatives like the Farm to Fork program.

Both projects underscore the essential role of agriculture in supporting local economies, especially in the Pacific region, where tourism plays a crucial part. Previous discussions have highlighted the importance of crafting food-centered experiences that resonate with tourists, building upon the cultural richness of the region while promoting sustainable practices.

This mentorship initiative presents a hopeful outlook for local communities as it aims to create a framework where agriculture and tourism thrive together, ultimately leading to a more resilient economy that respects and preserves cultural heritage.