Fiji’s Sandalwood Industry Set for a Boom: What You Need to Know!

The sandalwood industry is poised for significant growth in the coming years, with the Ministry of Forestry’s acting permanent secretary, Sanjana Lal, predicting a prosperous future as data from large-scale sandalwood planting emerges. During a recent meeting with the Standing Committee on Natural Resources to discuss the 2022-2023 Annual Report, Lal shared insights on the ministry’s efforts, including the establishment of the Sandalwood Farmers Association, which aims to streamline the sale and extraction of sandalwood oil, eliminating middlemen and maximizing returns for landowners.

Sandalwood, currently ranked as the third-largest forestry commodity in Fiji, following pine and mahogany, has seen substantial research and development over the past decade. This research has paved the way for enhanced growing techniques, making sandalwood a promising option for integrated farming, as it thrives alongside other crops like guava and moli. Lal emphasized the environmental benefits of sandalwood cultivation, highlighting its non-destructive harvesting methods and resilience in various farming conditions.

Historically, the Ministry of Forestry has undertaken significant initiatives to support sandalwood growth, with over 141,511 trees planted across 353.4 hectares by 2021. From 2010 to 2022, Fiji exported about 154,172 kilograms of sandalwood, generating approximately 12.3 million Fijian dollars, reaching markets in Dubai, Hong Kong, China, Australia, and Taiwan. Moreover, recent reports indicate that the ministry is eyeing a harvest of around 106 tonnes of sandalwood in the next five years with an expected export value of about 10 million dollars.

These developments align with prior predictions and initiatives, including the establishment of regulations to ensure sustainable management and encouraging replanting efforts within the sandalwood sector, reflecting the government’s commitment to strengthening this vital industry. Through these comprehensive efforts, market prospects look bright for Fiji’s sandalwood, contributing to farmers’ livelihoods and promoting environmental sustainability.

The steps being taken to foster the sandalwood industry not only promise economic benefits but also highlight a broader commitment to integrating agriculture and forestry, setting a hopeful course for Fiji’s agricultural future.