FarmBoy Fiji is actively seeking export opportunities to China with the aim of boosting revenue for local farmers and expanding its agricultural presence. Managing Director Kamlesh Prasad has underscored the exceptional qualities of wild-grown turmeric sourced from Navosa, known for its vibrant color and robust flavor, positioning Fijian turmeric as a competitive contender in global markets.
Prasad emphasizes the need to add value to agricultural products, advocating that farmers deserve more than just the sale of raw produce. Currently, FarmBoy processes turmeric into powder and plans to introduce a range of products, including turmeric tea, soap, and health tablets in the coming year. The company is also preparing to showcase its turmeric, cassava flour, honey, and kava at the World Farm Show in China, which will attract representatives from 177 countries.
Although Fiji does not yet have established export channels for turmeric to China, Prasad is keen to create these trade routes during his visit. He envisions expanding production while ensuring fair compensation for farmers, stating, “If the farmers get full benefit, the country also improves. So it is a win-win situation.”
Prasad believes that Fiji has the potential to be recognized as a significant agricultural exporter by focusing on sustainable, chemical-free farming practices, value-added processing, and equitable returns for local growers. This strategy supports the farmers who have been supplying FarmBoy for over 20 years.
FarmBoy Fiji, based in Nadi, provides a variety of fresh and processed agricultural products throughout the nation, working closely with local farmers to source crops such as turmeric, cassava, honey, and kava, and converting some of these raw materials into value-added products.
The rising turmeric industry in Fiji is marked by its concerted focus on export growth, with turmeric exports reaching $24.8 million in 2023, up from $21.6 million in 2022. However, challenges remain regarding price fluctuations and the stability of farmers’ incomes, prompting calls for supportive measures similar to those offered to other agricultural sectors.
FarmBoy Fiji’s commitment to broadening its product offerings and exploring new markets brings a sense of optimism for the future. The potential growth of turmeric not only holds the promise of increased farmer incomes but also aims to enrich Fiji’s agricultural landscape and stimulate the economy, fostering a hopeful outlook for both local farmers and the nation.