Research on best kava for export and consumption

A research to help identify the best kava for export and consumption and understand the factors that influence the strength has begun.

While speaking during the launch of the research by Fiji National University and the Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus (PHAMA Plus) Program titled “Beyond Kava – Understanding the Factors that Influence Fijian Kava” Assistant Minister of Agriculture and Waterways, Tomasi Tunabuna says the research will improve lives of kava farmers as it will help in the growth of the major export earner industry.

Tunabuna says Fiji’s kava industry has emerged as a major export earner, raking in $40.6 million last year and has become the top contributor to agriculture GDP – surpassing sugarcane and other commodities.

Meanwhile, Assistant Minister for Prime Minister's Office, Sakiusa Tubuna says improvement in the kava industry will ensure better productivity and production.

He adds when there is a price surge farmers are driven to plant and when prices of kava is low there is no motivation to plant and produce.

Tubuna further says that the government is committed to rebuild confidence in the business and productive sectors and to bridge the development gap between the rural and urban areas.

The research will focus on testing kava samples sourced from Bua, Kadavu, Saqani, Savusavu, Taveuni, Rabi, Naitasiri, Ovalau, Tailevu, Rotuma, Koro and Rakiraki to understand the factors that influence the strength, efficacy, or other organoleptic properties of kava and how this is related to kavalactone content and chemotype.