Agriculture Key to Fiji’s Economic Future

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says agriculture must play a central role in driving Fiji’s economic growth, calling for greater productivity, innovation, diversification and value addition across the sector.

Speaking at the National Agriculture Show and International Coconut Day 2026 at Subrail Park in Labasa, Rabuka acknowledged the contribution of farmers and agricultural communities to Fiji’s development.

“Today, we celebrate our farmers, our agricultural communities and everyone contributing to the development of Fiji’s agricultural sector,” Rabuka said.

He said the agriculture sector holds significant potential to produce more, process more and create greater economic opportunities for Fijians.

“The show is about more than agriculture. It is about Fiji’s economic future,” he said.

Rabuka stressed that future agricultural growth cannot depend solely on increasing production. Instead, he said Fiji must focus on higher productivity, stronger agricultural businesses, better technology and improved returns for farmers.

He also highlighted the need to reduce waste, improve the quality of agricultural products, increase value addition and connect farmers with reliable markets.

Turning to the coconut industry, Rabuka said revitalising ageing coconut plantations would require strong partnerships between farmers, communities, Government and the private sector.

He called for greater investment in processing, technology, infrastructure and market development to create higher-value products and new income opportunities.

Rabuka said achieving Fiji’s wider economic ambitions would require a whole-of-economy effort, with agriculture playing a key role in building a more resilient, prosperous and high-income Fiji.