The commissioning of a FJD$413,301 rice mill in Nailaga, Ba has brought hope to farmers in the Western Division.

Officiating at the event yesterday, Prime Minister of Fiji, Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka congratulated Fiji Rice Limited for their vision and foresight in growing the rice industry in Fiji.

“On behalf of the Government of Fiji, I would like to thank the Government of the People’s Republic of China for their continuous support towards the development of our rice sector in Fiji. Their support means we are able to reach out to more farmers especially on the dry side of the country, which is the Western Division,” said Hon. Rabuka.

“Rice has contributed to the improvement of the livelihood of thousands of farmers and their family members relying on rice as a main source of income.”

Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu also shared a few thoughts yesterday to stakeholders and said that the commissioning of the rice mill marks an unwavering collaboration and partnership between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Fiji.

“This occasion symbolizes the deepening friendship and cooperation between our two nations, reflecting our shared commitment and interest in agricultural development and food security,” said Hon. Rayalu.

“In December 2023, the Chinese Rice Team collaborated with the Chinese Engineers from Long Pi Hi-Tech, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fiji Rice Ltd to construct a building, rice dryer and rice mill in Ba. The total cost of this investment is FJD$413,301, the breakdown of this cost are as follows; Building – FJD$311,880, Mill – FJD$33,807 and Dryer FJD$67,614.”

“The opening of the rice dryer and mill represents a vital step forward in enhancing Fiji's Agricultural infrastructure. The rice dryer shed with rice mill was donated and installed by the Chinese Government and will be used to dry and mill rice for farmers all year around,” added Hon. Rayalu.

“Rice plays a crucial role as a staple food in Fijian households, alongside root crops, highlighting its significance in the local diet. Thus, in Fiji, rice plays various crucial roles in ensuring food security, contributing to economic growth, and maintaining social and political stability.”

Fiji imported $50.8m in 2022, which is roughly equivalent to 37,000 metric tonnes of rice.

About 8,300 metric tonnes obtained from the area of 2,445 hectares of rice produced locally reaches the consumers with a self-sufficiency level of 20%.

Approximately 8,300 metric tonnes of rice are produced locally from an area of 2,445 hectares of rice with a self-sufficiency level of 20%.

Hon. Rayalu added that with the current programs within the Ministry of Agriculture the aim is to increase the volume of rice production in Fiji.

“Previously, there were difficulties in drying and milling rice seeds during wet and rainy weather conditions. However, with the instalment of this mill, the dryer will play a crucial role in improving the post-harvest processing of rice in the Western Division, ensuring higher quality and increased yields for our farmers. This initiative not only boosts the agricultural sector but also contributes to food security and economic growth in Fiji,” added Hon. Rayalu.

“The commissioning of the rice mill, represents not only a transition, but also an opportunity and a future for growth and improvement. By working together, we can overcome obstacles, promote sustainable development, and create a better future for all Fijians. 

Farmers are urged to plant the recommended rice varieties such as Star, Boldgrain, Cagivou, Sitara, and Nuinui which have a short-duration and also have high rice yields ranging from 6 - 8 tonnes per hectare.

ENDS

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