Despite a high demand for goods produced domestically, co-operatives are not aware of the opportunities available in export markets.
During a recent parliamentary session, Opposition member Faiyaz Siddiq Koya raised concerns regarding the lack of awareness among Fijian co-operatives regarding available export opportunities.
He asked the Minister for Trade and Cooperatives, Manoa Kamikamica, on whether his ministry was actively encouraging older co-operatives to tap into international markets, particularly given the high demand for local products in Australia and New Zealand.
“Are they (co-operatives) being put onto it, that this is a particular product that is required, and they can actually get more out of the ministry with respect to getting that done?” Mr Koya asked.
He stressed that despite pathways being created for exports, many co-operatives were not capitalising on these opportunities.
In response, Mr Kamikamica acknowledged that awareness was a significant challenge for these co-operatives.
“We are encouraging co-operatives where there are farmers particularly, to look at various markets,” Mr Kamikamica said.
“I know for a fact, Sir, that at the moment, there is a shortage of dalo and cassava in New Zealand and also in Australia, so those are markets that are readily available.”
Mr Kamikamica shared an example of a successful initiative from two years ago, where a group from Lomaiviti began exporting tausala to Sydney, after previously selling the same produce in Suva.
He said this illustrated the potential for growth when co-operatives leverage export markets.
He further mentioned that his ministry collaborates closely with several other government departments, including Youth, Agriculture, Women, and iTaukei Affairs, to promote the co-operative agenda.
“Sometimes, because of the shortage, we leverage off their resource as well to get the awareness out.
“So there are some low hanging fruits that we flag now and again.
“Food Processors is looking for rourou suppliers for palusami, so we are encouraging farmers to supply rourou, if they can.”
