For the first time under this Government, seeds handed over to Fiji have been planted by local farmers and, within the same year, harvested and exported overseas through New Valley and its agencies, marking a historic milestone that is already delivering direct benefits to farmers nationwide.
This was highlighted yesterday (18-02-26) by Hon. Sakiusa Tubuna, Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, as he officiated the launch of New Valley’s Frozen Export Produce & Cold Chain Facility.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Tubuna described the development as historic, noting that cowpea seedlings were handed over to Fiji by the Government of India last year. Farmers began planting soon after, and in less than 12 months, the harvested produce has now been exported to overseas markets through New Valley and its agencies.
He said the achievement demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between government, development partners and the private sector in driving agricultural growth and improving farmer livelihoods.
“At the heart of this investment are our farmers, when farmers have access to a predictable and reliable market, they gain the confidence to plant more, improve quality and increase production. That confidence translates into real income and better living standards for our rural communities,” he said.
Hon. Tubuna congratulated New Valley and its partnership with the new facility showcasing Fiji’s capacity to meet international standards in quality control, cold storage, food safety and logistics.
“This facility at New Valley proves that Fiji is capable of competing globally. We can meet strict export requirements and deliver high-quality produce to international markets,” he said.
At the occasion, Assistant Minister Tubuna reaffirmed Government’s strong commitment to supporting innovative local businesses that drive progression and economic growth.
“As a Government, we remain committed to supporting local enterprises that add value to our primary industries. We will continue to create an enabling environment through policy support, strategic partnerships and infrastructure investment to ensure our farmers and agribusinesses thrive,” he said.
Assistant Minister Tubuna emphasised that initiatives like the New Valley facility not only strengthen Fiji’s export capacity but also reinforce the Government’s broader vision of sustainable agriculture, food security and inclusive economic development.