Fiji is ramping up efforts to reduce its significant dependence on imported dairy products with the inauguration of a new semi-indoor feed facility at the Navuso Agricultural Technical Institute. The facility was officially opened by Minister for Agriculture, Waterways, and Sugar Industry, Tomasi Tunabuna. He emphasized the importance of increasing local milk production, noting that Fiji currently imports approximately 75 percent of its dairy requirements.
With an estimated national demand for milk at 64.5 million liters per year and local production hovering around only six million liters, Tunabuna pointed out the substantial gap that exists, illustrating both the challenges and the potential for growth within the dairy sector.
The minister described the newly introduced semi-indoor feed system as a climate-resilient solution that not only enhances cow welfare but also helps to lower production costs and boost milk yields. This advancement is particularly timely as climate change increasingly affects agricultural productivity and poses additional pressures on farmers.
Acknowledging the long-standing resilience of Fiji’s dairy farmers, Tunabuna highlighted that the industry has persevered for over a century, overcoming significant challenges such as Tuberculosis and Brucellosis outbreaks. Government support for the dairy sector has seen substantial growth, rising from $300,000 to $5 million for 2024, with $4 million already allocated for the current financial year, showcasing a strong commitment to developing this vital industry.
The new NATI facility will also function as a training and demonstration center for farmers and students alike, promoting modern feeding systems that hold the potential to transform Fiji’s dairy landscape. The proactive measures being taken in Fiji’s agriculture not only aim to meet local demands but also signify a bright future for the nation’s dairy industry, reinforcing its resilience and adaptability in challenging times.
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