The Ministry of Forestry has started to allocate research resources aimed at integrating sandalwood into agroforestry systems within plantations in Fiji.
Forestry Minister Alitia Bainivalu highlighted that the ministry has recognized a rising demand for sandalwood, particularly in Asian markets. Over the past decade, the government has invested $1 million in a capital project to enhance sandalwood development across the nation.
Bainivalu emphasized the need for improved policy and regulatory frameworks to ensure sustainable management of sandalwood and to encourage replanting efforts, thus fostering a long-term high-value industry in the country.
She noted, “Interest in cultivating and expanding the sandalwood resource has surged over the last decade, thanks to its high value and promising outlook in terms of international price and demand.” In her parliamentary address last week, she reported that more than 132 hectares of sandalwood woodlots have been planted, totaling over 58,000 sandalwood trees.
Additionally, 31.4 hectares have been cultivated using an agroforestry method that integrates sandalwood with other timber and fruit trees. “Sandalwood can now be found growing in nearly every village, community, and inhabited island throughout Fiji,” she stated.
Looking ahead, the ministry forecasts harvesting approximately 106 tonnes of sandalwood over the next five years, with an estimated export value of $10 million. For the 2023-2024 financial year, $100,000 has been allocated to the Sandalwood Development Project, primarily used for consultations with growers across the Central, Western, and Northern divisions.
The main goal is to establish a Sandalwood Growers Association dedicated to safeguarding the interests of farmers. Bainivalu also mentioned that an inventory of sandalwood was conducted, and demonstration plots have been set up using the agroforestry approach.