The Government of Fiji is set to conduct a long-overdue valuation of agricultural land holdings under the Agricultural and Landlord Tenants Act (ALTA), a move that has not occurred in 14 years. This evaluation will encompass all leases governed by ALTA across i-Taukei land, State land, and freehold properties.
According to Dr. Tekini Nakidakida, Chair for the Committee of Valuer, the last successful review took place in 2011. Reviews were scheduled for 2016 and 2021 but did not proceed as required by law, leading to outdated lease values. With the government acknowledging that the figures from 2011 no longer accurately reflect the economic realities of leased lands, this upcoming valuation aims to update lease values.
Dr. Nakidakida indicated that the ALTA States Inspection Team will undertake inspections of agricultural land from May 12 to June 13, 2025. These inspections will verify production and sales data, ensure compliance with lease agreements, and enhance transparency within the agricultural sector. It is important to note that all leaseholders are required by law to cooperate with this inspection.
The prolonged absence of land value reassessments has been a recurring concern. Similar articles have highlighted significant financial repercussions for landowners due to outdated rental values, with landowners reportedly losing around $16 million since the last review in 2011 affecting over 21,000 leases. The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) noted that the issues extend beyond rental rates, as other factors such as low productivity, transportation costs, and an aging farming demographic play critical roles in the challenges faced by farmers.
This upcoming valuation represents a pivotal opportunity for the government to address these longstanding issues and reshape the agricultural landscape. By updating land values, there is hope for enhancing the economic viability of agricultural practices, thus supporting both landowners and farmers in achieving a more sustainable and prosperous future for Fiji’s agricultural sector.
Engaging in this mission, stakeholders can look forward to a revitalized commitment to agriculture that not only secures landowner rights but also encourages farming practices that can lead to increased food security and economic stability in the region.
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