THE Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) has confirmed the detection of Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Fiji, marking the first official report of the pest in the country.
In a statement, BAF said this invasive agricultural pest posed a significant risk to Fiji’s food security and economy because of its preference for crops such as maize, rice, sugarcane, and vegetables.
The pest was identified following targeted field surveillance on April 23, 2025 on a maize farm in Uciwai, Nadi, and later confirmed through laboratory diagnostics.
“FAW is a destructive moth pest native to the Americas but has rapidly spread across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific,” the statement read.
“The larvae feed voraciously on the leaves, stems, and reproductive parts of host plants, causing severe damage and yield loss.
“Fall Armyworm is known to feed on more than 80 plant species, with a strong preference for maize, rice, sorghum, sugarcane, and other important crops.
“Native to the Americas, the pest has rapidly spread across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific region in recent years due to its high mobility and adaptability.”
BAF said it had immediately activated its Plant Pest Emergency Response Plan to contain and manage the outbreak.
Farmers and stakeholders were urged to be vigilant and report any suspected signs of Fall Armyworm immediately.
Suspected sightings should be reported to the BAF hotline on 5984, or the nearest BAF, or the Ministry of Agriculture & Waterways Office.
