Sixty percent of Fiji’s agricultural output fails to reach formal markets, as revealed by Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica during the recent Western Division mini trade show in Nadi. He emphasized that this unfortunate statistic is not due to a lack of effort from farmers but rather because the agricultural systems within the country are not fully aligned with market demands.
Minister Kamikamica stated the importance of events like the trade show, which aims to connect Fijian farmers with export partners such as New Zealand. He urged a bold vision to transform Fiji’s agriculture by shifting towards a model that responds to market demand rather than merely a supply-driven approach. This includes carefully planning production based on real-time market data to minimize waste and enhance profit margins, while ensuring compliance with international standards.
Kamikamica articulated the market’s preference for consistency, advocating that successful agricultural operations should aim for regular, substantial deliveries—ideally, consistent monthly shipments of produce. He underscored the role of farmers, cooperatives, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in this transformative journey, suggesting that cooperative models provide necessary scale and shared resources, while MSMEs bring innovation and flexibility.
These insights resonate with ongoing discussions about the future of Fiji’s agricultural sector, mirroring sentiments expressed at the recent Fiji Farmers Economic Summit and various agricultural workshops where the need for collaborative effort was emphasized. Participants have been encouraged to seize emerging opportunities, enhance quality standards, and foster relationships with potential international buyers—key strategies in amplifying Fiji’s presence in the global market.
In a hopeful turn, the call for a market-focused agricultural approach not only aims to reduce waste but also to empower local farmers and businesses, thus paving the way for improved livelihoods and economic growth amid global market challenges. Such initiatives reflect a commitment to advancing Fiji’s agricultural landscape, fostering resilience, and promoting sustainable practices.
Leave a comment