Turmeric is emerging as a vital component of Fiji’s export market, drawing attention from government officials. During a recent parliamentary session, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, highlighted the potential of turmeric to become a billion-dollar sector for the nation’s trade.
According to the Bureau of Statistics, Fiji exported $24.8 million worth of turmeric to the United States, New Zealand, Canada, Singapore, and Tuvalu in 2023. This figure represents an increase from 2022, when exports were valued at $21.6 million and totaled approximately 2,500 tonnes.
Kamikamica noted that turmeric gained importance during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for exports to the US. He introduced the idea that if Fiji can identify around ten key exports capable of generating $100 million each year, this could result in a billion-dollar opportunity for the economy.
Despite its promise, the turmeric industry is currently grappling with challenges, notably price fluctuations that impact farmers’ earnings. Kamikamica stated, “Right now, the challenge with farmers is that the price fluctuates, making it difficult to maintain a sustainable income from their efforts.”
While there is some budgetary allocation for supporting turmeric through the Ministry of Agriculture, he emphasized that measures to stabilize pricing are lacking. He urged for government support akin to that provided to the sugar industry to promote equitable pricing and further growth in turmeric cultivation.
The Ministry of Trade is prioritizing turmeric and devising strategies to bolster its market potential. Although turmeric is primarily grown wild in Fiji, there is a growing interest in developing organic turmeric markets and expanding farming operations to boost export volumes. The aim is to potentially reach export targets of $50 million and beyond.