Fiji Rice Pte Ltd and the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) recently established a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at improving lease arrangements for landowners and tenants. This partnership is designed to support resource owners in engaging in rice farming activities.
According to Mukesh Kumar, CEO of Fiji Rice Ltd, the primary goal of this MOU is to foster a strong collaboration among stakeholders, particularly with the TLTB, allowing for the exchange of ideas, information, and data to enhance service delivery to farmers in the rice sector.
Kumar emphasized the commitment to developing rice farming in Fiji, especially among iTaukei landowners. The partnership will aid in identifying suitable lands and landowners for farming collaborations. Additionally, there is a focus on capacity building for rice farming, ensuring that landowners gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Fiji Rice Ltd has previously implemented similar initiatives in Vanua Levu, where they partnered with landowners in areas such as Vunivutu, Yalava, and Tabia in Macuata, as well as in Nabua, Savusavu. They have identified 400 acres in Tailevu for rice cultivation and now aim to expand rice production in Viti Levu.
With the intention of boosting local rice production and reducing import dependencies, Fiji Rice produced 1,300 tonnes in 2023 and plans to increase this to 1,700 tonnes in the coming year, with a target of reaching 4,000 tonnes over the next two to three years. Currently, there are 650 rice farmers in the country, and with the new MOU, there is hope to onboard an additional 100 to 150 farmers.
Kumar urged all stakeholders to seize the opportunity and encourage farmers to plant more rice, as weather conditions are favorable for farming at this time.
This initiative not only highlights a positive step towards enhancing local agriculture but also signifies a commitment to food security and self-sufficiency in Fiji. As the partnership unfolds, it holds the promise of empowering local farmers and enriching the agricultural landscape of the nation.
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