Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has welcomed a recent ruling by a German court that may pave the way for the sale of kava in Europe and other regions. Rabuka described this development as excellent news for Fiji’s kava sector, presenting a significant opportunity for both the country and the broader Pacific area.
On June 18, 2024, the German court lifted a prohibition that had prevented kava from being marketed as a pharmaceutical product for more than two decades. Although the ruling is currently under appeal, there is optimism that kava could soon be legally sold in Germany.
Rabuka noted that this decision would not only enhance kava exports but also benefit the numerous Fijians dependent on kava farming. Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the ruling represents a substantial step towards increasing Fiji’s presence in global markets and bolstering the economy. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to assisting kava producers in seizing this opportunity.
Kamikamica mentioned that the government is diligently working to ensure that Fiji meets international standards, so that when new markets open, the country can fully capitalize on them. “Let’s continue to support our kava industry as we progress towards a brighter future,” he concluded.