To boost Fiji’s rice industry, Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu recently announced a grant of $150,000 to Fiji Rice Ltd. He emphasized the importance of this funding in transforming the nation’s rice production.
Rayalu stated, “As the Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, I am proud to announce this significant investment aimed at boosting our rice industry.” He highlighted that this grant is essential for increasing rice production and decreasing dependency on imports. Currently, 88 percent of Fiji’s rice is imported at a cost of $42 million, making this funding critical.
The grant will assist in covering the costs of farm inputs, thereby making rice farming more accessible and economically viable for both new and established farmers. The goal is to increase paddy production by an additional 480 tonnes for this season.
Farmers receiving the grant are required to supply 80 percent of their rice paddy to Fiji Rice Ltd, which will ensure a consistent supply of local rice and enhance the availability of Fiji-grown rice in supermarkets. This initiative reflects a strong commitment to strengthening Fiji’s agriculture and enhancing food security.
The Ministry of Agriculture has announced that farmers can apply for the grant either online or at the Fiji Rice Mill offices located in Dreketi and Labasa.