Fiji remains Australia’s largest Pacific kava supplier by volume, exporting 22,577 kilograms of kava during the first quarter of 2026, according to new data released by Pacific Trade Invest Australia.
The figures were released as part of an update on Australia’s Kava Pilot Program, which was launched in 2019 and later expanded to allow commercial imports from December 1, 2021.
The latest data shows Australia imported a total of 42,906kg of kava during Q1 2026, a 14.5 per cent decrease from the previous quarter’s 50,161kg. However, imports remained 24 per cent higher compared with Q1 2025, highlighting continued annual growth in demand.
Fiji also recorded the largest supplier network, with 217 registered businesses exporting kava into the Australian market.
Since the commencement of the pilot program in December 2021, Fiji has exported a cumulative 296,948kg of kava to Australia — the highest among Pacific countries.
Vanuatu recorded the second-highest export volume during the quarter with 15,921kg, while Tonga exported 3,388kg and Papua New Guinea shipped 1,020kg.
PTI Australia said the pilot program had created new commercial opportunities for Pacific exporters while helping businesses navigate Australian import regulations and food safety standards.
Tahun Kava Export owner and director Sergine Morin Tahun said growing demand for quality kava products in Australia was creating new opportunities for Pacific businesses.
“The biggest opportunities right now include the growing demand for high-quality, clean, and consistent kava products in markets like Australia,” she said.
However, she noted ongoing challenges including freight costs, import compliance requirements and maintaining consistent supply.
PTI Australia said consumer education, product quality and compliance standards were becoming increasingly important as Australia’s wellness and functional beverage sectors continued to expand.
