Fiji’s first-ever Agribusiness Incubation (ABI) Centre was launched this afternoon at the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways headquarters in Raiwaqa.
The ABI Centre is a ground-breaking initiative designed to support farmers and agribusinesses, especially micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), by fostering innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth in the agriculture sector.
In launching the Centre, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Honourable Manoa Kamikamica, said the initiative represents a transformative partnership that promises tangible benefits for Fiji’s farming communities and MSMEs.
“Today’s event marks a pivotal moment as we commit to advancing a modern, innovative and resilient agriculture sector that is vital to Fiji’s economy. Agriculture is not just an industry here – it is the heart of our communities, the source of livelihood for many families and a significant contributor to Fiji’s economic growth,” Hon. Kamikamica said.
He highlighted that in the face of climate change and global uncertainty, innovation and sustainability are critical. The ABI Centre will provide startups and entrepreneurs with access to capital, mentorship, technical guidance, and business resources while serving as a collaborative hub that honours traditional agricultural knowledge.
“It is more than just a facility; it is a dynamic hub where ideas take flight, where innovation is transformed into tangible enterprises, and where farmers and agripreneurs receive the mentorship, resources, and encouragement they need to succeed,” he added.
Located beside the Fiji Crop and Livestock Council, which represents more than 80,000 farmers, the Centre will ensure close collaboration and stronger support for the farming community.
The ABI Centre falls under the Sustainable Transformation of Domestic Agrifood Systems in Fiji, Samoa and Solomon Islands (STODAS) Project, funded by the European Union and implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).
The STODAS Project focuses on boosting domestic food production and reducing reliance on imports by promoting climate-smart farming and sustainable agribusiness practices across the Pacific.
Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna, reaffirmed the central role of agriculture to Fiji’s economy and livelihoods.
“Agriculture has always been the backbone of our economy. This sector not only supports thousands of households but also stimulates growth in other industries such as processing, marketing, and exports. Recognising its importance, we must continue to invest in innovative practices, infrastructure, and capacity building to help farmers increase productivity and diversify their crops,” Hon. Tunabuna said.
He emphasised that the Ministry’s role within STODAS is to create an enabling policy environment, strengthen institutions, and align strategies with the recently launched Non-Sugar Agriculture Sector Policy 2025–2035, which sets out Fiji’s long-term vision for agricultural transformation.
The European Union Ambassador to Fiji, Her Excellency Barbara Plinkert, stressed that reducing reliance on imports and strengthening innovation in agriculture is crucial for food security.
“I must thank the Government of Fiji and FAO for this collaboration and know that this will turn dreams into reality for agribusiness entrepreneurs,” said Ms. Plinkert.
Assistant FAO Representative to Fiji, Ms. Joann Young in sharing her remarks said the Centre will provide the technical foundation and global best practices to ensure its long-term success.
“The Centre is not just a project, it is the foundation for a self-sustaining agribusiness ecosystem in Fiji and the Pacific. Over time, it will become a hub for innovation, mentorship, training, and connections to markets, finance, and technology,” she said.
“I must also thank the European Union’s contribution of 10 million euros to the STODAS Project.”
The launch of the ABI Centre marks a milestone for Fiji’s agriculture sector — combining innovation, resilience, and collaboration to empower farmers, entrepreneurs, and communities.
With the support of Government, development partners, and the private sector, the Centre is set to transform Fiji’s agribusiness landscape and build a more sustainable, self-reliant future.
ENDS