Fiji’s agriculture sector must adapt to face new challenges. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives and SMEs Manoa Kamikamica highlighted that while agriculture has historically been a cornerstone of the local economy, it continues to confront issues such as fluctuating international market prices and the adverse effects of climate change on product quality.
Mr. Kamikamica emphasized that agriculture is more than just an industry in Fiji and the broader Pacific region; it is a fundamental aspect of life that underpins communities, provides income, and ensures food security. He made these comments during the launch of the 2024 Agri-Innovate Business Plan Competition in Suva.
He stated, “As we look to the future of transformation and progress towards a greener economy, it is evident that the agriculture sector must also evolve to address new challenges and seize emerging opportunities for economic prosperity.”
The agri-innovate competition aims to provide a platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in agriculture to present innovative ideas and practices for cultivating agricultural products both locally and within the Pacific region.
Joann Young, Assistant Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Fiji, noted that agriculture is crucial for Fiji’s economy, offering job opportunities, supporting food security, and making significant contributions to the national GDP. However, she pointed out that MSMEs in the sector frequently struggle with limited market access, lack of technical know-how, and insufficient financial resources.
“By supporting these entrepreneurs, we can harness the full potential of our agricultural sector, fostering economic growth and paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for Fiji,” said Ms. Young. She called on stakeholders, including the government, development partners, and private sector entities, to exploit innovation and entrepreneurship to revamp the agricultural landscape in Fiji.
“Through collaboration and empowering our MSMEs, we can fully realize their potential and enable them to lead positive transformations in Fiji’s agricultural sector.”