Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica recently visited Zespri International in New Zealand to explore their successful cooperative model, according to the Ministry of Trade. Zespri is a thriving $2 billion industry and the largest exporter of kiwifruit globally, known for its innovative marketing strategies and strong brand presence.
The cooperative model employed by Zespri enables it to leverage the collective strength of its growers while maintaining high-quality standards and sustainable practices. Minister Kamikamica envisions a similar approach for developing the avocado industry in Fiji.
Zespri has offered to provide guidance and support, using its vast experience in international markets to assist Fiji in maximizing the potential of its agricultural sector. Despite Fiji’s abundance of tropical fruits like avocados, papayas, and pineapples, these resources have not yet been fully commercialized.
To diversify Fiji’s economy, efforts are underway to implement comparable cooperative models and create robust industry structures that can enhance production, marketing, and export capabilities. DPM Kamikamica is currently on an official visit to New Zealand, engaging with industry leaders to advance these initiatives.