The Fiji Mahogany Trust has unveiled its Six-Year Strategic Plan for 2025–2030, marking a significant step forward for the country’s forestry sector, particularly in promoting the sustainable development of the mahogany industry. The initiative was launched by Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Alitia Bainivalu, who underscored the importance of landowners in shaping the future of Fiji’s forestry landscape.
Minister Bainivalu highlighted that the long-term success of the mahogany industry relies on fruitful collaborations between government bodies, industry stakeholders, and landowners. She pointed out that the forestry sector is currently confronting various challenges, such as economic uncertainties and increasing social and environmental demands, along with a looming global timber shortage projected over the next five decades.
Bainivalu noted that Fiji’s long-rotation plantation resources, particularly mahogany, are now regarded as strategically significant assets that necessitate responsible and transparent management practices. Over the past two decades, the mahogany industry has undergone substantial development, establishing institutions, evolving harvesting systems, and generating revenue streams.
The strategic plan is designed to foster an environment characterized by transparency, accountability, and sustainable governance. Economically, mahogany continues to play a vital role in Fiji’s development, with the new plan aimed at shifting the focus from quantity to value-based production. This approach emphasizes quality management and premium market positioning to ensure the industry’s long-term sustainability and resilience.
Moreover, the plan strongly advocates for meaningful engagement with landowners, recognizing that their inclusive participation is crucial in advancing social and economic development at the community level. By prioritizing these collaborative efforts, the Fiji Mahogany Trust aims to build a robust and sustainable future for the mahogany industry and its stakeholders.
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