Fiji imports $0.9 million worth of mushrooms annually, says Acting Minister for Agriculture Filimoni Vosarogo.
He told a regional workshop on Juncao promotion in Nadi yesterday that those imports were mostly driven by the tourism industry.
Fiji imports mushrooms from Australia and New Zealand.
Mr Vosarogo highlighted how Juncao Technology had been instrumental in assisting regional mushroom production locally.
He noted the distribution of 223,612 mushroom substrates to farmers, and the active involvement of technical institutions, women’s organisations and vulnerable groups in mushroom production.
He said registered businesses and community groups continued to scale up production, while regional partners Tonga, Vanuatu and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) had benefited from technical support, cuttings and substrates provided through the China-Pacific Regional Centre.
“Fiji imports 100 tonnes of mushrooms annually, valued at $0.9million, largely for the tourism sector,” Mr Vosarogo said.
“Juncao Technology provides a pathway toward import substitution, improved food system resilience and reduced carbon emissions.
“The technology complements traditional farming systems, supports women and youth empowerment, and enhances communities’ ability to withstand disasters and climate shocks.”
Mr Vosaorogo said Juncao Technology provided an excellent model for Pacific Island countries seeking sustainable growth and resilient food systems.
“Through strengthened regional collaboration and partnerships with China, Fiji stands ready to continue advancing agricultural development, climate adaptation and green economic opportunities.”
