#2024sidsforum | The increase in export earnings from turmeric in Fiji, from FJD 0.1 million in 2013 to FJD 25 million in 2023, is indeed a remarkable achievement.

This was stated by the Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu during the plenary session focused on Building a Blue Ocean Continent through the One Country One Priority (OCOP) Initiative on the second day of the Pacific Island Developing States Solutions Forum, at the Sheraton Resort in Denarau, Nadi.

“The Western part of Viti Levu significantly contributes to the local turmeric production and the crop has seen a consistent growth,” said Hon. Rayalu.

“Fiji's turmeric export volume has grown significantly, rising from 75 tonnes in 2013 to 3,216 tonnes in 2023. Currently, 97 per cent of Fiji’s turmeric exports are sent to the United States of America (USA), while New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and the Pacific Island countries account for the remaining three percent.”

“The export of turmeric to the USA has experienced significant growth, increasing rapidly from just 62 tonnes in 2013 to an impressive 3,121 tonnes in 2023,” said Hon. Rayalu

Under the One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) which was launched by the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (UNFAO), Fiji has chosen to promote turmeric.

"We chose turmeric because it is well-suited to Fiji's climate and soil characteristics. It has unique qualities and significant potential for both domestic and export markets. Currently, turmeric is mostly harvested from the wild, but there is great potential to enhance farmers livelihoods and contribute to economic growth," said Hon. Rayalu.

Hon Rayalu also highlighted to the forum members that to achieve Fiji’s vision for the future, the following support and initiatives are needed:

Develop a plan to increase turmeric exports.

Create a National Turmeric Policy.

Invest in research and development.

Establish a Turmeric Industry Association.

Implement training programs for farmers.

Promote sustainable production practices.

Provide technological support and resources for mechanization.

OCOP is a five-year programme (2021-25) aimed at promoting Special Agricultural Products with unique qualities at global, regional and local levels.

These are Special Agricultural Products with unique qualities and special characteristics that can contribute to the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.

Since the launch of the OCOP in September 2021, over 87 Members from all five FAO regions have expressed their strong, preliminary interest in promoting the green development of over 55 Special Agricultural Products.

ENDS