Fiji’s Cocoa Industry on the Cusp of a Major Breakthrough

Fiji is on the verge of missing a significant opportunity in the global cocoa market, where prices have surged close to $US10,000 ($F22,920) per metric tonne due to a supply shortage. The decline in cocoa production in key producing nations like Ghana and Ivory Coast, attributed to diseases, lack of investment, and climate change, has resulted in a projected global shortfall of approximately 500,000 metric tonnes. Consequently, cocoa prices have skyrocketed by nearly 300 percent.

Arif Khan, director of Cacao Fiji, has urged the government to take necessary steps to formalize and regulate the local cocoa industry to tap into this promising market. He has called for a structured approach to cocoa production, advocating for the creation of a cocoa board to oversee operations effectively. Khan warns that without strategic planning, the potential growth of the local cocoa industry could be stunted, which is vital for the involvement of thousands of farmers. His goal is to boost production to 2-3 metric tonnes in the upcoming years.

Adding to this call for action, Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu has emphasized the need to rejuvenate the cocoa sector and expressed confidence in its ability to regain its economic contribution of around $22 million annually. Rayalu has recently engaged with the Wasawasa Chocolate Factory to facilitate partnerships aimed at enhancing cocoa production and value addition.

The combined efforts of Khan and Rayalu reflect a burgeoning commitment to revitalizing Fiji’s cocoa industry. This renewed focus could pave the way for job creation, improved incomes for farmers, and a strengthened economy. With a solid foundation in place, there is a hopeful outlook that Fiji’s cocoa industry could emerge as a key player in the global market.

By prioritizing investments in cocoa production and backing local farmers through organized initiatives, Fiji can not only fulfill local market demands but also position itself as a competitive exporter of high-quality cocoa products. The future appears bright, with government backing and a resilient industry set to breathe new life into a sector with substantial potential.