Fiji has seen a remarkable increase in its turmeric export volume, according to Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu. At the recent Pacific Island Developing States Solutions Forum in Nadi, he highlighted the substantial growth of this crop, particularly in the western region of Viti Levu.
The figures are impressive: turmeric exports surged from 75 tonnes in 2013 to an astonishing 3,216 tonnes in 2023. Currently, 97 percent of Fiji’s turmeric is exported to the United States, with the remaining three percent going to New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and other Pacific Island nations. The trend is particularly notable in the United States, where exports jumped from just 62 tonnes in 2013 to a remarkable 3,121 tonnes in 2023.
Minister Rayalu explained that the decision to bolster turmeric production aligns with the One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative initiated by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO). Turmeric was chosen due to its compatibility with Fiji’s climate and soil, alongside its unique quality and substantial potential in both domestic and international markets.
While much of Fiji’s turmeric is presently sourced from the wild, there is significant potential to enhance farmers’ livelihoods and contribute to the country’s economic growth through further cultivation and export initiatives.
This significant boost in the turmeric export sector is a promising development not just for the agricultural scene in Fiji, but also for the local economy, as it emphasizes innovation and sustainable farming practices.
Overall, the turmeric export growth signals a positive trajectory for Fiji’s agriculture, offering hope for further advancements in the sector and improved economic opportunities for farmers.
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