Fiji has made remarkable progress in boosting its agricultural exports, recently celebrating the successful shipment of three tonnes of Ripley Queen pineapples to New Zealand. This inaugural commercial trial shipment occurred on November 5th and is a vital part of the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways’ Agriculture Trade & Marketing Research Programme. Minister Tomasi Tunabuna expressed his pride in this achievement, highlighting the effective collaboration among government bodies, industry stakeholders, and local communities.
This shipment of pineapples showcases Fiji’s increasing ability to meet international market expectations, especially stringent biosecurity standards. The Ripley Queen variety, known for its sweetness and robust flavor, has already received positive reviews from consumers in New Zealand.
Tunabuna underscored the significance of this milestone, attributing the export success to partnerships established during the first National Agriculture Mini-Trade Forum, which connected Fijian farmers with New Zealand’s agricultural authorities. This initiative underscores Fiji’s dedication to enhancing trade relationships, with New Zealand emerging as a leading importer of Fijian fresh produce.
In earlier reports, New Zealand’s First Secretary, Adam Crichton, noted that Fiji exports over 80% of the Pacific’s fresh produce to New Zealand, a market that yearly demands about $2.7 billion worth of fresh fruits and vegetables. This scenario presents numerous opportunities for Fijian farmers to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the national economy.
As the Ministry continues to assess the performance of the exported pineapples and supports farmers and exporters, Tunabuna urged the Fiji diaspora in New Zealand to advocate for Fiji’s premium produce. This appeal illustrates the collective effort to strengthen bilateral trade relations, potentially fostering economic growth and resilience.
Fiji’s recent achievement in exporting pineapples represents not just a triumph for local agriculture but also reflects a significant stride toward enhanced food security for New Zealand and economic empowerment for Fijian farmers. As both nations enhance their trade relations, there is palpable optimism for future collaboration that could benefit their economies and communities.