Fiji Rice Pte Ltd has partnered with the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at improving lease arrangements for landowners and tenants engaged in rice farming. This agreement seeks to facilitate resource owners in entering the rice farming sector.
Mukesh Kumar, CEO of Fiji Rice Ltd, emphasized that the MOU’s primary goal is to foster a collaborative environment among stakeholders, especially the TLTB, to exchange ideas, share information, and provide effective services to local farmers. He stated, “We are focused on the development of rice farmers in the country, particularly with iTaukei landowners.”
As part of the initiative, Fiji Rice Ltd is enhancing capacity building for selected landowners, which includes increasing awareness of the rice industry. The organization has successfully worked with landowners in locations across Vanua Levu, including Vunivutu, Yalava, and Tabia in Macuata, and in Nabua, Savusavu. They have also identified 400 acres in Tailevu for rice cultivation and aim to develop more rice production areas in Viti Levu.
The overarching aim of this initiative is to boost Fiji’s rice production and reduce reliance on imports. In 2023, Fiji Rice produced 1,300 tonnes of rice, with a goal of reaching 1,700 tonnes this year and 4,000 tonnes within the next two to three years. Currently, there are 650 rice farmers in Fiji, and the partnership hopes to increase this number by an additional 100-150 farmers.
Kumar encouraged existing and potential rice farmers to seize the opportunity for planting rice now, highlighting the favorable weather conditions. This initiative not only strengthens local food production but also promises improved livelihood opportunities for farmers.
In summary, this collaboration between Fiji Rice Ltd and TLTB marks an important step toward enhancing local agriculture, supporting landowners, and striving for greater self-sufficiency in rice production, which is promising for the future of Fiji’s agricultural landscape.
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