Local agripreneurs in Fiji are poised to gain significantly from enhanced access to global expertise and innovation, following a successful week-long mission by a delegation from AgHub India, based in Hyderabad. The visit aimed to empower Fijian agripreneurs by sharing valuable insights from India’s dynamic agri-innovation landscape.
The mission began with a courtesy call to Peni Sikivou, the Acting Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Business Development, who underscored the necessity of empowering local entrepreneurs as a vital element for sustainable agricultural growth in Fiji.
Key discussions throughout the week revolved around providing tailored incubation support, mentorship, and coordinated ecosystem strategies to help agribusiness startups tackle common obstacles such as financing, technology adoption, and market access. The delegation collaborated with Business Assistance Fiji and the Fiji Crop and Livestock Council to explore ways to bolster support services for agripreneurs, especially those in rural areas and engaged in value-added agricultural activities.
A pivotal roundtable discussion brought together various government agencies and development partners to assess how a comprehensive, ecosystem-wide approach could enhance opportunities for agribusiness entrepreneurs, elevate productivity, and build resilience within the agricultural sector.
Additionally, on-site visits to local agribusinesses offered the delegation a direct understanding of the challenges faced by Fijian entrepreneurs, such as production limitations, logistics hurdles, and a pressing need for innovative solutions. These interactions uncovered practical collaboration opportunities, leveraging India’s successful experiences in scaling agribusiness solutions tailored for smallholder contexts.
This collaboration marks a promising step toward enriching Fiji’s agricultural sector, opening doors for local agripreneurs to thrive in a competitive global landscape and fostering a spirit of innovation and resilience.