Fiji wants to increase its vegetable production to reduce its imports of fresh produce that can be grown locally such as broccoli, peppers, cauliflower, cucumbers, lettuce and tomatoes.

 

During a training workshop dedicated to protected crops, Vinesh Kumar, Secretary of Agriculture, clarified that Fiji imports approximately 20 million FJD (9.5 million USD) of vegetables each year such as broccoli, bell pepper , cauliflower, cucumber, lettuce and tomatoes.

 

These imports result from the irregularity of the supply throughout the year. Nearly 90% of Fijian farmers cultivate in open fields and production is minimal during the rainy season. Season that extends from November to April, with hot and humid conditions that favor disease and rainfall that damages exposed crops.

 

But the country could reduce such vegetable imports as they can be successfully grown locally under protected cultivation, Vinesh Kumar pointed out.

 

Adding that the protective structures are known worldwide and have proven their effectiveness. The main benefits are an increase in crop yield and product quality, improved water use efficiency and a significant reduction in the use of pesticides. Production throughout the year allows farmers to increase their income.

 

 

 

source : fijivillage.com, spc.int 

 

 

 

The Fijian government has begun providing farmers with protected crop structures and continues to promote these low-cost systems that deliver the desired results (Photo: spc.int)