The two–day Mini Trade Forum proved to be a successful gathering, bringing together 137 growers, exporters and agro-processors from the Central, Eastern and Northern Divisions.

This gathering provided valuable opportunities for collaboration and networking, fostering stronger relationships within the agricultural community.

During the closing session of the two day Mini Trade Forum at Novotel Convention Centre in Lami yesterday, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics, Hon. Professor Biman Prasad said this face to face dialogue is a powerful step towards building enduring trade relationship that are responsive, resilient and anchored in genuine market demand.

“Your engagement here marks a new chapter in our bilateral relationship - one that is grounded in trust, mutual benefit, and a shared vision for Pacific prosperity,” said Hon. Prasad.

“To our esteemed growers and exporters—your participation here is not just valued; it is crucial to our success! You form the foundation of our trade ecosystem. Your resilience, readiness, and dedication to quality energise the policies we develop and the platforms we establish. You are more than just participants in this forum; you are its driving force and the heartbeat of Fiji’s Trade Hub,” said Hon. Prasad.

He said the forum closely aligns with the priorities of our National Development Plan 2025 – 2029, which emphasizes a market–led, coordinated, and inclusive approach to economic development.

“This presents a great opportunity for us to build on our shared vision and work together toward meaningful progress.”

Hon. Prasad said that the consolidation of the Fiji Trade Hub, as launched by the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, is not just a platform – it is a national promise. A promise to reduce barriers, to connect producers with buyers, and to ensure that our trade is guided by real-time intelligence and grounded in quality and compliance.

He also emphasized the positive potential of the Market-Farm-Market model introduced under the New Zealand MPI-Enhanced Pacific Market Access Partnership. This model will effectively establish a market-led approach for facilitating our exports.

“By adopting this strategy, we can enhance our economic resilience, empower our communities, and strengthen Fiji's reputation as a trusted, high-quality exporter in the Pacific and beyond. Together, we can create a brighter future for our people and our economy,” said Hon. Prasad.

Hon. Prasad acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, the Ministry of Trade, the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji, and New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries.

He said it highlights their collaborative work through outreach initiatives, mini workshops, and strategic site visits, which have laid the foundation for a successful outcome.

Additionally, Nunia Leka, aged 60, from Dakuivuna, Tailevu, expressed her appreciation to the government for organizing this forum, where farmers can voice their concerns.

“It was an eye-opening experience, providing me with a deeper understanding of the processes to follow. I wish I were still young, as the government has provided us farmers with so much support.

“I have come to understand that farming operates as a business.

During our group discussion, I recognised the necessity for improved time management among our team. One contributing factor to our inability to export was my challenge with time management. We must develop a structured plan and schedule our tasks effectively at home,” said Ms Leka.

For the Western Division, the Mini Trade Forum will be held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa this Thursday and Friday.

-ENDS-

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