The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways is seeking a consultant to develop a national kava policy and draft a Kava Bill. In a recent announcement, the ministry highlighted the importance of kava as a key crop and export product for Fiji, emphasizing its economic and social implications.
The ministry noted that over the years, the use of kava has transitioned from traditional and cultural practices to a widely enjoyed social beverage, becoming a significant cash crop marketable in both local and international arenas. Fiji is recognized as one of the leading exporters of kava, alongside Vanuatu, with other contributors including Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.
In fact, kava exports in Fiji have outstripped other major commodities such as sugarcane, dalo, turmeric, cocoa, and coconut, with the current export value of kava reaching approximately $38.1 million. The government has prioritized the enhancement of Fiji’s kava industry, and the establishment of a policy is deemed essential to direct and guide future developments within this sector.
The newly proposed National Kava Policy is intended to streamline activities along the kava value chain. The consultant is expected to commence work in the upcoming month.