Fiji’s Citrus Industry Gets Boost With California Plantlets

Fiji’s citrus industry is set for further development following the successful quarantine and release of citrus plantlets imported from California by the Wonderful Company.

The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) completed the required post-entry quarantine procedures before the plantlets were cleared for planting.

The plantlets were kept at a BAF-approved quarantine facility, where they underwent regular inspections and laboratory testing to ensure they met Fiji’s biosecurity requirements.

Following the completion of the necessary checks, the plantlets were approved for release and have since been planted.

BAF Acting Chief Executive Officer Surend Pratap and the Chief Plant Protection Officer visited the farm to observe the planting activities.

The authority said post-entry quarantine is a key safeguard in preventing exotic pests and diseases from entering Fiji and threatening agriculture, food security, the environment and rural livelihoods.

BAF will continue monitoring the citrus plants at the planting site through its Plant Health Surveillance Programme.

The authority also acknowledged the Wonderful Company and FIJI Water for their cooperation and commitment to meeting Fiji’s biosecurity requirements.

BAF said the initiative demonstrates how strong biosecurity measures can support agricultural development while protecting Fiji’s plant resources and creating opportunities for the country’s future citrus industry.