Fiji Rice Pte Ltd has joined forces with the iTaueki Land Trust Board (TLTB) by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at streamlining lease agreements for landowners and tenants involved in rice farming. This partnership seeks to empower resource owners to dive into rice cultivation.
Mukesh Kumar, the CEO of Fiji Rice Ltd, emphasized that the primary goal of the MOU is to foster a collaborative relationship between key stakeholders, particularly the TLTB, in order to facilitate the exchange of ideas and resources. This collaboration will enhance service delivery to farmers engaged in the rice industry. Mr. Kumar articulated that the initiative targets the development of rice farming among iTaukei landowners, identifying specific lands and collaborating with these landowners for effective implementation.
Fiji Rice has already made strides in the northern region, working with landowners in Vunivutu, Yalava, and Nabua while also pinpointing 400 acres of land in Tailevu for rice cultivation. The focus now shifts to expanding rice production in Viti Levu.
The overarching goal behind this initiative is to boost Fiji’s rice output and decrease dependence on rice imports. In 2023, Fiji Rice produced 1,300 tonnes of rice, with a target of 1,700 tonnes for the current year and an ambitious aim of reaching 4,000 tonnes over the next two to three years. Currently, the country has 650 active rice farmers, and with the establishment of this MOU, there is hope to increase this number by an additional 100 to 150 farmers.
Mr. Kumar encourages farmers to seize the opportunity presented by favorable weather conditions to increase rice production during this pivotal planting season.
This partnership represents a positive step forward, not only for local farmers but also for food security in Fiji. By enhancing local rice farming, Fiji can look forward to increased self-sufficiency in rice production and improved livelihoods for farmers.
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