Fiji and India have reached a significant agreement to enhance collaboration in agriculture, sugar, livestock, and rural development, aimed at modernizing Fiji’s agri-industrial sector and establishing climate-resilient food systems. The discussions took place in New Delhi between Fiji’s Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Tomasi Tunabuna, and Indian Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
During their meeting, Tunabuna emphasized Fiji’s commitment to transitioning towards smart and digital agriculture, which includes initiatives such as drone technology, nano-fertilizers, advanced irrigation systems, and improvements in agro-processing, livestock, and dairy sectors. The modernization of the sugar industry was also a key priority highlighted by Tunabuna.
The talks also addressed practical collaborations that could lead to effective partnerships in various areas. This includes the development of digital farm and livestock registries, enhancing value-added processing, establishing sugar bio-industries, managing food waste, and utilizing agricultural by-products in animal feed.
Both parties expressed optimism over forming a Fiji–India Agriculture, Sugar, Livestock and Bio-Industries Working Group. This initiative could pave the way for pilot projects and a comprehensive multi-year cooperation framework, fostering a sustainable agricultural future for Fiji while strengthening ties with India. Such partnerships not only promise economic growth but also embody a commitment to sustainable practices in agriculture, which is increasingly pertinent in today’s climate-conscious world.
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