The forestry sector is one of the key industries supporting Fiji’s economy. According to Minister for Forestry Alitia Bainivalu, the forestry and logging sector accounted for approximately $31.1 million in contributions in 2022, representing about 0.3 percent of Fiji’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Ms. Bainivalu made these remarks during her speech at the International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) Conference held in Macao, China. She noted that although Fiji does not export logs, it efficiently processes its round wood production into two primary products: sawn wood and woodchips. Woodchips are designated for export, while sawn wood caters to both domestic and international markets.
In 2022, the total domestic export revenue was estimated at $1.1 billion, with the forestry sector contributing approximately 6.8 percent, which amounts to $93.0 million. Ms. Bainivalu emphasized that Fiji has benefited from wise government investments in forestry plantations since before independence in 1970, utilizing fast-growing exotic species like pine and mahogany.
The success of these plantation efforts has led to the establishment of two commercial forest plantation companies, owned jointly by the government and local landowners, focusing on the management of pine and mahogany. The strategic aim was to establish and uphold a sustainable timber industry that serves both local and export demands while reducing reliance on natural forests.
Currently, production from natural forests has been on a decline, contributing only 3 percent to the national output, with forests of mahogany and pine accounting for 6 percent and 91 percent, respectively. The mahogany plantation is projected to double its production within the next 18 to 24 months, aiming to boost total wood production to nearly 600,000 cubic meters annually. Most remaining natural forests are expected to be preserved and utilized for non-wood purposes, with nearly all wood production anticipated to come from plantations.
However, Ms. Bainivalu pointed out that the sector faces significant challenges due to climate change. She indicated that the distinct separation between wet and dry seasons has diminished, complicating the planning and execution of plantation establishment and harvesting. Extended dry spells and rising temperatures have increased the risk of forest fires, especially affecting pine plantations. Furthermore, the adaptability of primary plantation species to shifting weather patterns remains uncertain. The reliance on single-species commercial plantations amplifies these risks, particularly concerning the potential for pest and disease invasions.