Fiji’s agriculture sector must adapt to new challenges and opportunities, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, and SMEs Manoa Kamikamica. While agriculture has traditionally been a cornerstone of the local economy, it faces issues such as fluctuating international market prices and the impact of climate change on product quality.
Kamikamica emphasized that agriculture in Fiji, and the broader Pacific region, is not just an industry but a critical part of community life, providing income and food security. He made these remarks at the launch of the 2024 Agri-Innovate Business Plan Competition in Suva.
The competition aims to encourage innovation among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the agricultural sector, providing a platform for them to present unique ideas for cultivation that could benefit Fiji and the entire Pacific region.
Joann Young, Assistant Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to Fiji, highlighted the importance of agriculture to Fiji’s economy, noting its role in job creation, food security, and GDP contribution. However, she pointed out that MSMEs in agriculture often struggle with limited market access, technical expertise, and financial resources.
Young called on stakeholders—including government, development partners, and private sector entities—to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the agricultural sector. By working together and empowering MSMEs, stakeholders can help realize the full potential of agriculture in Fiji, fostering economic growth and sustainability in the future.