A kava farmer from Tailevu has urged the formation of provincial co-operatives throughout Fiji to stabilize prices and alleviate persistent supply shortages in the kava sector. This appeal was made during a consultation regarding the Kava Bill and National Kava Policy, which took place in Korovou, Tailevu last week.
Setevano Raivuni, from Navunisole in Namalata, expressed concerns about the current open market system, which he claims results in unfair price discrepancies for farmers nationwide. He stated, “The issue with an open market is that some grog can be bought at a higher price and others at a lower price.” Raivuni’s proposal advocates for provincial co-operatives to procure kava directly from local farmers, thereby streamlining the supply chain before selling to exporters and middlemen.
Highlighting the stark contrast in pricing between the two main islands, Vanua Levu and Viti Levu, he pointed out that “the price of one kilogram of grog in Vanua Levu can reach up to $200, while here in Tailevu it is around $120.” This variation underscores the need for a regulatory structure to ensure fair compensation for all farmers.
Raivuni explained that establishing co-operatives would allow for a standardization of prices across the nation and significantly reduce the possibility of price manipulation by intermediaries. He also emphasized the challenges faced by farmers due to inadequate access roads in rural areas, noting, “We carry our produce on our backs to the main road and then onto trucks. It’s very difficult and tiring.”
The establishment of co-operatives could serve as a beneficial solution not only for farmers like Raivuni but also for the overall kava industry in Fiji, ensuring that farmers receive equitable prices and improving the efficiency of the supply chain. This initiative could potentially lead to a more stable kava market, enhancing the livelihoods of farmers across the nation.
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