Climate change and poor infrastructure have been identified as the two primary issues impacting Fiji’s production.
The National Development Plan (NDP) report confirmed these factors contributed to reduced crop yields and hindered the Non-Sugar, Crops and livestock sector’s overall growth.
The report highlights that climate change exacerbates the difficulties caused by poor infrastructure, particularly farm access roads and drainage systems.
“Poor farm access roads make it difficult for farmers to transport their produce to markets efficiently, leading to increased transportation costs and delays, and reducing profitability,” the report mentioned.
“Moreover, during periods of heavy rainfall, impassable roads isolate farms, making it impossible for farmers to tend to their crops or livestock.”
Additionally, the report stated that insufficient drainage systems contribute to problems like waterlogging and soil erosion, which can damage crops and degrade pastureland. Access to domestic and international markets remains a challenge, particularly for farmers in rural and maritime islands, where high transportation costs limit their ability to export produce to the mainland.
This situation, according to the report, significantly impacts profit margins.
“Inadequate infrastructure, encompassing transportation, storage, and market facilities, particularly in rural areas, poses a constraint to the sector’s development.
“Limited transportation networks, storage facilities, and processing units impede the efficient movement of agricultural products from farms to markets. While there is growing interest in Fijian agricultural products, ensuring consistent quality, adhering to international standards, and navigating complex trade regulations is key.
“Establishing market linkages, improving information dissemination through digital platforms, and facilitating farmer-market partnerships can enhance market access and profitability for farmers.”
To address these issues, the report suggests that establishing market linkages, enhancing information dissemination through digital platforms, and facilitating partnerships between farmers and markets can improve access and profitability for farmers.
