The Ministry of Forestry in Fiji has initiated investment in research aimed at integrating sandalwood into agroforestry systems within plantations. Minister for Forestry Alitia Bainivalu highlighted the increasing demand for sandalwood, notably from Asia. The government has actively supported sandalwood development through a capital project, contributing $1 million over the past decade to rejuvenate the industry.
Bainivalu emphasized the importance of enhancing policies and regulations for the sustainable management of sandalwood and promoting replanting efforts to establish a long-lasting high-value industry for the country. She noted that interest in expanding sandalwood cultivation has surged over the last decade, owing to its significant market value and favorable long-term demand prospects.
Under this initiative, over 132 hectares have been designated for sandalwood plantations, yielding more than 58,000 trees. Additionally, 31.4 hectares have been planted using an agroforestry model that integrates sandalwood with other timber and fruit trees. Sandalwood cultivation is now evident in nearly every village and inhabited island throughout Fiji.
Looking ahead, the ministry anticipates harvesting approximately 106 tonnes of sandalwood within the next five years, with an expected export value of around $10 million. For the financial year 2023-2024, $100,000 has been allocated to the Sandalwood Development Project, primarily for consultations with growers across the Central, Western, and Northern divisions.
The main aim of this initiative is to establish a Sandalwood Growers Association to advocate for farmers’ interests. Bainivalu also mentioned the completion of a sandalwood inventory and the establishment of demonstration plots utilizing the agroforestry approach.