Fiji has experienced remarkable growth in its turmeric export volume, with significant increases noted in recent years. At the Pacific Island Developing States Solutions Forum held in Nadi, Minister for Agriculture Vatimi Rayalu highlighted that turmeric exports have grown from 75 tonnes in 2013 to an impressive 3,216 tonnes in 2023, a testament to the crop’s success in the Western region of Viti Levu.
Currently, a staggering 97 percent of Fiji’s turmeric exports target the United States, while the remaining three percent is distributed among New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and neighboring Pacific Island countries. Specifically, turmeric exports to the US have surged from a mere 62 tonnes in 2013 to an extraordinary 3,121 tonnes by 2023.
Fiji has chosen to promote turmeric as part of the One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative, launched by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO). Rayalu pointed out that turmeric thrives in Fiji’s climate and soil, showcasing its unique characteristics that position it well for both local consumption and international markets.
While much of the current turmeric supply is still harvested from the wild, there lies a significant opportunity to enhance farmers’ livelihoods through cultivation—an endeavor that could further boost the nation’s economic growth.
With such successes, Fiji is not only advancing its standing in the global spice market but also working toward sustainable agricultural practices that can uplift local communities. The future looks bright for Fiji’s turmeric industry, promising further growth and development for farmers and the economy alike.
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