The Ministry of Forestry is investing in research to integrate sandalwood into agroforestry systems in Fijian plantations. Minister for Forestry Alitia Bainivalu highlighted the increasing demand for sandalwood, particularly in the Asian market. Over the past decade, the government has committed $1 million to nationwide sandalwood development under a capital project.
The ministry aims to enhance policies and regulations to ensure the sustainable management of sandalwood while promoting replanting efforts, ensuring a long-term high-value industry for Fiji. Bainivalu noted a growing interest in sandalwood cultivation over the past ten years due to its high value and strong international demand.
The initiative has seen over 132 hectares of sandalwood woodlots planted, totaling more than 58,000 trees. Additionally, 31.4 hectares have been established using agroforestry combined with other timber and fruit trees. Sandalwood is now thriving in numerous villages and islands across Fiji.
Looking ahead, the ministry anticipates harvesting approximately 106 tonnes of sandalwood in the next five years, projecting an export value of $10 million. For the 2023-2024 financial year, a $100,000 investment was allocated to the Sandalwood Development Project, primarily focusing on consultations with growers in the Central, Western, and Northern divisions.
The project aims to establish a Sandalwood Growers Association to safeguard farmers’ interests. Furthermore, an inventory of sandalwood has been conducted, and demonstration plots have been created using the agroforestry approach.