Fiji has made significant strides in establishing a global standard for fresh turmeric, receiving substantial backing at the recent CCFFV23 meeting in Mexico City. This initiative, aimed at creating a standardized classification for turmeric, underscores the crop’s increasing importance in food security, health, and international trade.
The proposal emphasizes turmeric’s economic value and has garnered immediate support from key agricultural players, including China, India, and Kenya, who have agreed to co-chair the initiative alongside Fiji, which will lead the technical work. This collaborative effort reflects a united front towards enhancing global trade practices and fair export opportunities for turmeric.
With the support of the Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (CCFFV), the fresh turmeric standard is set to advance to the 48th Codex Alimentarius Commission meeting in Rome this November. Here, further discussions will shape the proposal’s journey toward final adoption.
Fiji’s push for a turmeric standard comes at a time when turmeric exports have skyrocketed, rising from just 75 tonnes in 2013 to an impressive 3,216 tonnes in 2023. Notably, 97% of these exports are directed to the United States, showcasing the significant role of this spice in Fiji’s economic landscape. With the government’s One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative focusing on enhancing turmeric cultivation, local farmers are poised to benefit greatly from the expected increase in demand.
As Fiji continues to tap into the global turmeric market, this initiative not only highlights the country’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices but also holds promise for further economic resilience and community development. The future of Fiji’s turmeric industry looks promising, with vast potential for growth and development, contributing positively to local farmers and the nation’s economy as a whole.
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