THE livestock industry has achieved an average export growth rate of 13 per cent over the past five years despite Fiji being still heavily dependent on imported livestock products, said Ministry of Agriculture permanent secretary Uraia Waibuta.

He was speaking at a meeting at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi where more than 50 industry stakeholders were present for three days to review and validate a draft livestock sector strategy.

“It is envisaged that the proposed new strategy will develop a clear plan for livestock development given the challenges the sector faces including Fiji’s continued import imbalance for livestock products, the demands from the growing tourism industry and a renewed national government push for the agriculture sector,” he said.

“I therefore request your full participation in validating the strategy so that the outcome is measurable, implementable, achievable and sustainable.”

The meeting is being hosted by the Pacific Community’s Land Resources Division and is the culmination of a series of planning, consultations and meetings.