The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, in collaboration with the New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries through the Enhanced Pacific Market Access Partnership (MPI-EPMAP) and the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji, held an intensive training session on New Zealand export markets at the Naibita Village Hall in Wainibuka yesterday morning.

While officiating at the opening of the workshop, Mr. Semi Matalau, the Chairman of the Tailevu Provincial Council, emphasised the importance of using land effectively and adopting a business mindset in farming.

He urged the dedicated farmers of Tailevu to focus on increasing local food production and learn to be self-sufficient by using their land to provide for themselves, rather than relying solely on the government's support.

"You have no excuse as you have the land, the sea, the people, and the talent, yet we, as landowners, remain impoverished, ‘’ said Mr. Matalau.

He pointed out that while it is easy to blame the government for not doing enough, the government has now brought the market directly to their doorstep.

He encouraged farmers to understand the market trends and consumer preferences while also utilising their land to supply the market effectively.

“Consistency in supply and meeting the quality standard is important. We need to work together to meet the market requirement, and at the same time, secure this market for the province of Tailevu,” said Mr. Matalau.

Mr. Matalau also encouraged Tailevu farmers to work closely with the ministry and the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji to fulfil the requirements of the New Zealand market.

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