Fiji has achieved a notable milestone in establishing a global standard for fresh turmeric, receiving significant support at the recent Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (CCFFV23) meeting held in Mexico City. This initiative focuses on creating a standardized classification for turmeric, which reflects the crop’s growing importance for food security, health, and international trade.
Key agricultural nations, including China, India, and Kenya, have expressed their backing for this proposal and agreed to co-chair the initiative alongside Fiji, which will lead the technical aspects. This collective effort showcases a commitment to improving global trade practices and ensuring fair export opportunities for turmeric.
The proposal for a fresh turmeric standard is set to advance to the 48th Codex Alimentarius Commission meeting in Rome this November, where further discussions will help shape the initiative’s path toward final adoption.
Fiji’s initiative comes at a pivotal moment, as turmeric exports have surged, increasing from just 75 tonnes in 2013 to an impressive 3,216 tonnes in 2023. Notably, 97% of these exports go to the United States, highlighting turmeric’s significant role in Fiji’s economic landscape. The government’s One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative, which promotes the enhancement of turmeric cultivation, is geared toward ensuring that local farmers reap the benefits of this increasing demand.
As Fiji ventures deeper into the global turmeric market, this initiative not only underscores the country’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices but also promises greater economic resilience and community development. With vast potential for future growth, Fiji’s turmeric industry appears poised to make a positive impact on local farmers and the national economy.
This development is promising, as it positions Fiji as a key player in the international spice market while aiming to improve the livelihoods of its agricultural communities.
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