Chinese Ambassador to Fiji, Zhou Jian, has highlighted Fiji’s untapped agricultural potential, particularly in rice cultivation, as a vital opportunity to enhance food security. Despite the island nation possessing vast areas of suitable land, it remains heavily reliant on rice imports. Ambassador Jian suggests that with increased support and investment, Fiji could significantly boost local rice production, thereby reducing dependency on imports.
He noted the possibility of three rice harvests a year, which could transform Fiji into an exporter rather than an importer. Ambassador Jian emphasized the necessity for a food transformation to make better use of existing agricultural resources, such as dalo and cassava, which are rich in starch. By shifting focus to rice production, Fiji can not only strengthen its local economy but also contribute to regional food security, especially amid global supply chain disruptions.
Previous similar initiatives in Fiji have sought to rejuvenate rice farming, such as the inauguration of a $400,000 rice mill by the Chinese government to aid local farmers and enhance production capabilities. This mill, located in Ba, exemplifies a collaborative effort to encourage more Fijians to engage in rice cultivation, supported by logistics and infrastructure improvements.
The government and various stakeholders have also been promoting training sessions for local farmers to employ modern, sustainable agricultural practices, reflecting a broader commitment to revitalizing Fiji’s rice industry for increased self-sufficiency. Overall, these combined efforts aim to foster a sustainable agricultural framework that enhances food security and minimizes reliance on imports, ultimately paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous future for Fiji.
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