Fiji is working to regain its status as a key banana exporter through a new revitalization strategy. This plan emphasizes increased production, enhanced biosecurity measures, and improved export readiness.
The Ministry of Agriculture has reported a decline in banana exports, from 21 tons in 2016 to less than a quarter of that today, despite an increase in domestic production. Minister for Agriculture Vatimi Rayalu stated, "The banana sector has long been an integral part of the agricultural landscape, but recent challenges have limited our growth."
The revitalization plan seeks to provide farmers with the necessary tools to enhance yields, safeguard crops, and increase Fiji's share in the global banana market. Rayalu notes that the plan includes several strategic initiatives, such as the mass production of disease-resistant seedlings. These seedlings aim to ensure higher yields and protect crops from ongoing biosecurity threats.
Source: FBC News