Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his approval of a recent German court ruling that could potentially enable the sale of kava in Europe and beyond. He views this development as a significant opportunity for Fiji’s kava industry, benefiting both the nation and the Pacific region as a whole.
On June 18, 2024, the German court lifted a long-standing ban that had prohibited kava from being marketed as a pharmaceutical product for over two decades. Although the decision is currently under appeal, there is optimism that kava may soon be sold legally in Germany.
Rabuka emphasized that this ruling would enhance kava exports and provide substantial support to the thousands of Fijians dependent on kava farming. Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica also praised the decision, highlighting it as a crucial advancement in expanding Fiji’s global presence and enhancing the economy. He reiterated the government’s commitment to assisting kava producers in seizing this opportunity.
Kamikamica noted that the government is diligently working to ensure that Fiji meets international standards, allowing the nation to capitalize on new market openings. He urged continued support for the kava industry as the country moves towards a more prosperous future.