The European Union has reaffirmed its support for Fiji’s agriculture sector, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agri-food systems to enhance economic growth and create employment opportunities. At the recently held Fiji Agri-Innovate Competition, EU Ambassador Barbara Plinkert spoke about the substantial $26 million Sustainable Transformation of Domestic Agri-Food Systems project, which aims to assist Fiji along with Samoa and the Solomon Islands in improving their agricultural value chains, from production to processing and market access.
Plinkert underscored the vital role that agriculture plays in ensuring food security, generating income, and boosting exports. She noted the sector’s strong connections to tourism and domestic markets, which present escalating opportunities for local farmers and agri-entrepreneurs. Furthermore, agriculture is not solely about food production; it also significantly impacts nutrition and health.
In Fiji, agriculture is a strategic pillar of the economy, representing about 14 percent of GDP and sustaining numerous rural households. It strengthens export capabilities, increases incomes, enhances local markets, and fosters healthier diets, ultimately contributing to the fight against malnutrition.
To bolster this sector, the EU is encouraging small business owners to participate in the Agri-Innovate Competition. The competition evaluates participants who may receive support for commercial expansion through investment grants and de-risked loans. Assistant Minister for Commerce and Business Development Sachinda Nand highlighted how the competition aligns with the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Strategic Plan, which aims for MSMEs to contribute around 40 percent of Fiji’s GDP by 2030, with improved access to finance and a more cohesive support system in place.
As the two-day event nears its conclusion, 12 agribusinesses are competing, offering a robust platform to enhance the sector and leverage insights from established entrepreneurs. The initiative is poised to bolster Fiji’s agricultural landscape, providing hope for a thriving future built on sustainable practices and innovation.
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