In 1990, Viliame Gonelevu, the Minister for Primary Industry and Cooperatives, called on stakeholders in Fiji’s ginger industry to unite in efforts to enhance the sector during his visit to the Tropical Food Products factory in Kalabu, Nasinu. Gonelevu emphasized the importance of improving the production and marketing of both mature and baby ginger, stressing the necessity for a comprehensive industry approach that ensures fairness for producers and satisfaction for consumers.
Gonelevu highlighted the promising potential of the newly accessible Japanese market, indicating that it could significantly bolster Fiji’s processed ginger trade. Solomone Makasiale, the chief executive of the National Marketing Authority (NMA), announced that the first shipment of brined ginger to Japan, consisting of 96 tonnes, was set to depart soon. The NMA aimed to ship a total of 1,300 tonnes within that year, aspiring to deliver high-quality products.
According to Makasiale, farmers involved in the ginger industry had earned over $500,000 from their efforts. Ratu Ifereimi Raicebe, the manager of Tropical Food Products Ltd, detailed that the company had processed around 1,030 tonnes of ginger roots, employing significantly more workers than in previous years.
The firm prioritizes quality by managing the fiber content to ensure a competitive product. Raicebe noted that the timing of planting and harvesting was critical to the industry’s success. They currently export high-quality ginger products, including syruped, crystallized, and dried forms, to major markets such as Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
This proactive approach to refining the ginger industry not only assures farmers of fair returns but also contributes positively to Fiji’s economic landscape, fostering growth within the processing sector. By focusing on quality and efficient market access, the ginger industry holds the potential for continued success in international markets, supporting farmers and boosting the country’s economy.
It is notable that these developments align with broader trends seen in Fiji’s agricultural sector, which has witnessed significant growth and improvements across various products, demonstrating the country’s increasing capacity to meet international demand. The insights and actions taken by industry stakeholders in the ginger market reflect a collective effort toward sustainability and economic resilience in Fiji.
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