May 10, 2025
The newly opened Savusavu Municipal Market marks a transformative milestone for farmers in the region, offering a modernized, climate-resilient facility to strengthen farm-to-market access, improve produce distribution, and enhance agricultural livelihoods.
The Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna, attended the opening ceremony, where he reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to empowering farmers through improved market infrastructure.
He highlighted the significance of ensuring agricultural producers have direct access to reliable, well-equipped trading spaces.
“The success of Fiji’s agricultural sector depends on strong market systems that connect farmers directly with buyers. This new facility ensures that local producers have a secure, efficient, and sustainable trading environment to sell fresh produce while expanding their business opportunities,” said Hon. Tunabuna.
The market, which has been long anticipated since 2017, was built to address the growing demand for structured trading spaces for farmers and vendors.
It features improved sanitation, energy-efficient design, and modernized infrastructure, ensuring that farmers can deliver fresh, high-quality produce to consumers under optimal conditions.
Hon. Tunabuna emphasized the importance of supporting farmers with access to stable market pathways, quality infrastructure, and economic incentives.
He encouraged them to take advantage of the new space to expand their trading networks and strengthen Fiji’s food systems.
“Our farmers are the backbone of Fiji’s economy, and this new market represents our ongoing commitment to ensuring they have the tools, infrastructure, and support needed to thrive,” he stated.
“With better access to consumers, farmers can secure fair pricing, increase their earnings, and establish a more sustainable agricultural trade network.”
Local farmer Eroni Turaga expressed gratitude for the new facility, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on agricultural businesses in the region.
“This market is a turning point for us. For years, farmers struggled with limited spaces and unpredictable trading conditions."
"Now, we have a reliable, well-equipped space where we can sell our produce efficiently and meet growing consumer demands.”
Vendors and farmers celebrated
the official opening, sharing optimism about the future growth and economic
opportunities the market will bring to the Savusavu farming community.
Hon. Tunabuna reiterated that the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways remains committed to strengthening market infrastructure, ensuring farmers receive continuous support, technical training, and fair market accessibility.
The opening of the Savusavu Municipal Market represents a new era for Fiji’s agricultural sector, ensuring farmers, vendors, and consumers benefit from modernized facilities and strengthened supply chains.
ENDS