The forestry sector plays a crucial role in Fiji’s economy, being one of the 21 key industries that contribute to its growth. Minister for Forestry Alitia Bainivalu announced that the forestry and logging industry generated approximately $31.1 million in 2022, which represents about 0.3 percent of Fiji’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Bainivalu made these remarks during her address at the International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) Conference in Macao, China. She highlighted that while Fiji does not export logs, it processes all its roundwood into sawn wood and woodchips, the two primary products. “Woodchips are for exports while sawn wood targets both domestic and export markets,” she explained.
In terms of export earnings, Bainivalu noted that in 2022, the total domestic export earnings were estimated at $1.1 billion, with the forestry sector contributing roughly 6.8 percent, amounting to about $93 million. She also pointed out that Fiji has been fortunate to have government investments in forestry plantations since before gaining independence in 1970, utilizing two fast-growing exotic species: pine and mahogany.
The minister mentioned the success of these plantation efforts, leading to the establishment of two commercial forest plantation companies, co-owned by the government and landowners. These companies focus on managing pine and mahogany. “The overall goal was to foster a sustainable timber industry that serves both domestic and international markets, thereby reducing the reliance on our natural forests,” stated Bainivalu.
She acknowledged a decline in production from natural forests over the years, which now only contributes 3 percent to the national total. In contrast, forest plantations yield significant production, with mahogany and pine accounting for 6 percent and 91 percent, respectively. The mahogany plantation is expected to double its production within the next 18 to 24 months, aiming for a total wood production of nearly 600,000 cubic meters per year. Bainivalu noted that most remaining natural forests are likely to be reserved for non-wood uses, with the majority of wood production expected to come from plantations.
Bainivalu also addressed the challenges facing the sector, particularly due to climate change. “The clear distinction between wet and dry seasons is becoming less pronounced, complicating the planning and execution of plantation establishment and harvesting,” she remarked. She pointed to the increasing risks of forest fires associated with prolonged dry spells and rising temperatures, which have impacted pine plantations. Furthermore, she expressed concerns about the resilience of the main plantation species to changing weather conditions, given that all commercial plantations consist of a single species, heightening the potential risks from pests and diseases.