Yaqona Bill Seeks Stronger Protection and Support for Fiji’s Kava Farmers

The Government is moving to strengthen Fiji’s yaqona industry through the Yaqona (Kava) Bill 2026, which proposes the establishment of a Fiji Yaqona Council and a stronger regulatory framework for the sector.

Presenting the Bill at its Second Reading in Parliament, Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna said the legislation would give farmers a stronger voice while improving quality, traceability, market confidence and industry coordination.

The 2024 National Yaqona Farming Household Census recorded 14,532 farming households and 17,200 farmers, with about 93 percent of households relying on yaqona as their main source of income.

Yaqona exports have grown significantly, increasing from about 137 tonnes valued at $6.6 million in 2013 to 1,016 tonnes valued at $79.1 million in 2025.

The proposed Yaqona Council would bring together farmers, processors, exporters and Government agencies to support industry development, research, standards and market access.

Tunabuna said the legislation would be complemented by Government support, including yaqona planting materials, infrastructure and research.

He said the overall objective is to create a fair, trusted and sustainable yaqona industry that protects farmers while strengthening Fiji’s reputation in local and international markets.