The Labasa Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit 2025 commenced today with a focus on exploring new export and investment opportunities tailored for Vanua Levu’s agribusiness sector. Organized by the Labasa Chamber of Commerce and Industries, with backing from Investment Fiji, this year’s summit is themed “Creating Agribusiness Opportunities in Vanua Levu.” Aiming for collaboration among stakeholders from government, business, agriculture, and finance, it seeks to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the agribusiness industry.
In light of the challenges posed by the declining sugar industry, Labasa Chamber of Commerce and Industries President Vinesh Dayal emphasized the summit’s critical role in promoting agriculture for both trade purposes and food security. He highlighted that activities occurring in rural areas directly influence urban businesses, underscoring the interconnectedness of the agricultural and business sectors.
The summit will shine a spotlight on unlocking new agribusiness opportunities, particularly in high-value agricultural products. Investment Fiji’s CEO, Kamal Chetty, stated that the summit serves as a platform for businesses to pursue investment and expansion avenues as well as export opportunities. He remarked on the substantial potential Vanua Levu holds for agribusiness and the importance of targeted investments and capacity-building efforts.
Chetty envisions the summit acting as a catalyst for collaboration and growth in the agribusiness sector, contributing significantly to regional development and aligning with Fiji’s broader economic goals. “Investing in agribusiness here is not only about farming; it’s about developing a comprehensive value chain, creating jobs, and enabling export-led growth that uplifts entire communities,” he asserted.
The gathering comes at a pivotal time as the agricultural sector must evolve to meet emerging challenges and seize new opportunities. This summit is a timely effort that could significantly contribute to the resilience and sustainability of Fiji’s agribusiness landscape.
This initiative captures a hopeful spirit, reflecting wider regional efforts seen in related events, such as the previous Fiji Farmers Economic Summits, which also emphasized empowerment and collaboration among farmers to enhance productivity and ensure sustainable agricultural practices. Overall, the focus on innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth offers a positive outlook for the future of agriculture in Fiji, reinforcing the potential for community development and economic stability.
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