There has been a significant surge in applications for the Ministry of Agriculture’s rice farming planting grant for the 2025 season in Fiji. Mukesh Kumar, the chief executive officer of Fiji Rice Limited (FRL), noted that the response from farmers has been notably stronger compared to previous years. A total of 283 applications have been submitted across the country, reflecting an increase of 130 farmers.
This year’s outreach has also encouraged female participation, with 46 female farmers taking advantage of the government grant. To qualify for the planting grant, rice seedlings must be planted between November 1, 2024, and January 31, 2025.
In an effort to boost rice production, the Ministry of Agriculture conducted training programs focused on encouraging iTaukei farmers to enter the rice farming sector. The rising price of paddy, which increased from $850 to $1,000 per ton, has contributed to this growing interest. Mr. Kumar indicated that the financial assistance provided through the planting grant will help alleviate the high costs associated with rice farming inputs.
For the 2024/2025 financial year, the government has allocated an additional $150,000 to FRL to facilitate these grants. Furthermore, FRL has set a requirement for an 80 percent supply of rice paddy from farmers to optimize production levels. Parmesh Chand, the Permanent Secretary for Civil Service, emphasized the importance of landowners and village communities engaging in rice farming, particularly given its competitive pricing compared to other cash crops.
Among the applicants, 57 iTaukei farmers expressed interest in the planting grant. Mr. Kumar highlighted the necessity of expanding participation in the rice industry to reduce Fiji’s rice import bill, which currently stands at $60 million, with a self-sufficiency rate of only 17 percent. Efforts to increase local rice production are particularly focused on Viti Levu, which has historically produced less than Vanua Levu.
Kumar assured stakeholders that there will be no misuse of the grants, as FRL collaborates closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to monitor the program. A supply chain officer conducts ground verifications before any payments are made, ensuring that selected farmers qualify based on merit through a thorough selection process that includes the Principal Agriculture Officer and his staff.
The guidelines for the planting grant are structured to provide assistance across three categories of farmers: small, semi-commercial, and commercial. The grants provide varying levels of support based on the size of the farming operation, maximizing the benefits to farmers while promoting local rice production.
This initiative reflects a positive trend in agricultural engagement within Fiji, with hopeful outcomes for enhancing local food security and empowering farmers economically.
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