Fiji’s agriculture sector is being urged to adapt to new challenges, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives and SMEs Manoa Kamikamica. He highlighted that despite the agriculture industry being a long-standing cornerstone of the local economy, it faces hurdles such as fluctuating international market prices and deteriorating product quality linked to climate change.
Kamikamica emphasized the importance of agriculture in Fiji and the Pacific region, describing it not just as an industry but as a vital way of life for communities, contributing to income and food security. He made these remarks during the launch of the 2024 Agri-Innovate Business Plan Competition in Suva.
The competition aims to give micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the agriculture sector a platform to present their innovative ideas for agricultural production, both locally and across the Pacific region. Kamikamica pointed out the need for the agriculture industry to evolve to face new challenges and seize emerging economic opportunities as Fiji transitions towards a greener economy.
Joann Young, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization’s Assistant Representative to Fiji, acknowledged agriculture’s significant role in the nation’s economy, stating it not only provides jobs and food security but also contributes substantially to the national GDP. However, she noted that MSMEs in the sector often struggle with limited market access, insufficient technical skills, and a lack of financial resources.
By fostering and supporting these agricultural entrepreneurs, Young believes Fiji can tap into the full potential of its agricultural sector, driving economic growth and creating a more sustainable future. She called on stakeholders, government entities, development partners, and the private sector to harness innovation and entrepreneurship to revamp Fiji’s agricultural landscape, enabling MSMEs to lead significant advancements in the sector.