Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu has addressed concerns surrounding the non-renewal of agricultural land leases, assuring that steps are being taken to balance the needs of farmers and landowners.
Speaking in Parliament yesterday Mr Vasu acknowledged the critical role agriculture plays in Fiji’s economy, revealing that 85-87 per cent of land lease renewals have been successfully processed.
However, he noted that challenges remain, with only 50 per cent of the 30,000-50,000 hectares allocated for agriculture currently utilised.
“Five years before a lease expires, the TLTB (iTaukei Land Trust Board) staff conduct consultations with farmers,” Mr Vasu explained.
However, he admitted that farmers have raised concerns that the five-year window is insufficient to prepare if a lease is not renewed.
“We are now facilitating a 10-year consultation period to better address these concerns.”
Key reasons for non-renewal include breach of lease contracts, underutilisation of land, and lease arrears.
“Farmers are advised to surrender portions of land they are not using to avoid delays in renewal,” he said.
Additionally, some landowners seek to reclaim land for food security or rezoning as areas develop.
To support renewals, the Government provided $1.2 million in grants last year to 218 farmers.
“The TLTB is working hard to consult thoroughly, helping both farmers and landowners,” said Mr Vasu, urging members of Parliament to direct unresolved cases to TLTB offices or his ministry.
“Our focus is to ensure issues are addressed fairly, considering perspectives from both sides,” Mr Vasu said.
“This way, we can resolve disputes effectively and equitably.”
