The Agriculture Mini Trade Forum held at the Novotel in Lami marked a significant step for the Agricultural Ministry, signaling its intention to make the event an annual occasion following a successful inaugural gathering. The forum, which was originally slated for June, faced delays due to the passing of the late minister Vatimi Rayalu, but the ministry’s Deputy Permanent Secretary, Tekini Nakidakida, expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts with the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries, Pacific Trade Invest, and PHAMA plus, which provided essential funding for the event.
Mr. Nakidakida noted that the mini trade forum aimed to connect New Zealand importers directly with Fijian farmers, processors, and exporters. This engagement is crucial for helping farmers understand the demands of the New Zealand market, allowing them to produce with greater foresight rather than seeking markets post-production. The ministry plans to take the discussions and proposed solutions from the forum to the Ministry of Finance for further action and consideration.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad acknowledged the impressive turnout and emphasized the importance of addressing the concerns raised during the forum. The continued implementation of such forums across the Western Division this week will further strengthen the agricultural dialogue and collaboration between Fiji and New Zealand.
Similar initiatives in previous articles highlight the growing emphasis on cooperative efforts within Fiji’s agricultural sector. For instance, workshops aimed at supporting farmers in strengthening supply chains and promoting sustainable agricultural practices have been successful in fostering unity among stakeholders. The combination of these efforts showcases a broader movement toward innovation and market readiness within the sector, boding well for the future of agriculture in Fiji.
By fostering partnerships and enhancing knowledge exchange, Fiji’s agriculture sector is poised to improve its market access and export capabilities, which could lead to economic growth and improved livelihoods for local communities. Overall, the ongoing commitment to collaboration and market-oriented strategies reflects a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s agricultural development in a competitive global landscape.
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