Agriculture plays a pivotal role in enhancing economic growth and securing livelihoods, food, and nutrition, as emphasized by Permanent Secretary for the Agriculture Ministry, Dr. Andrew Tukana, during a recent series of workshops in Lawai Village, Nadroga. Dr. Tukana highlighted the importance of aligning agricultural production with market demand, ensuring that production activities are supported by secured market access.
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for 2023 was reported at $10,846.4 million, with the non-sugarcane agricultural sector contributing $759.3 million, reflecting a notable increase of 6.9 percent from previous figures. This growth aligns with overall improvements in local production and rising tourist arrivals; however, challenges such as climate change and rural-urban migration persist, exacerbating pressures on farmers and agricultural stakeholders to adapt to both ecological demands and market requirements.
Comments from Vandhna Shiwangni of Vinesh Exporters further illustrate the positive impact of these workshops. Vinesh Exporters, which has been active for three years, exports a variety of fresh produce including eggplant, pawpaw, curry leaves, turmeric, ginger, okra, and mango to New Zealand weekly. Shiwangni noted that the workshops provided essential educational insights, motivating growers and exporters to enhance their farming initiatives.
The discussions at the workshops echo themes from previous agricultural initiatives, such as the recent 2024 National Agriculture Show, where various stakeholders emphasized collaboration as key to boosting Fiji’s agricultural sector. With reported foreign export gains—particularly a 16 percent increase in fresh and chilled products during the first half of 2024—the focus remains on empowering local farmers, enhancing their access to markets, and promoting sustainable practices that further cement agriculture’s critical role in Fiji’s economy.
This ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment reflects a hopeful future for Fiji’s agricultural landscape, where both growth and stability can be pursued amid changing environmental conditions.
Leave a comment