Fiji exported $41.9 million worth of kava in 2021 and is one of the largest agricultural exports in the country.
Speaking at a side event for "Pacific Kava: Rooting the industry in exports" at the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry in Nadi, Assistant Minister at the Office of the Prime Minister Sakiusa Tubuna says kava is a significant commodity in the Pacific as it carries important value for the region, culturally, socially and economically.
He says today the interest of kava is not exclusive to Pacific people.
Tubuna says there has been a transition over the past few decades, where the plant has become a growing export commodity.
The Assistant Minister also highlighted that the recent achievements of exports to Australia is a testament to the great work conducted by the various sectors in boosting the recognition of kava as a mainstay commodity.
He adds as of September last year, 114 Fiji exporters have registered and have accessed permits to the Australian market.
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