The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways has reaffirmed its commitment to revitalising Fiji’s agricultural sector after the successful launch of the country’s first-ever Agribusiness Incubation Centre (ABI Centre) — a milestone initiative that aims to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and food security across the nation.

In delivering his statement today in Parliament, Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna expressed deep appreciation to the former Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communication, Honourable Manoa Kamikamica, whose visionary leadership and collaboration laid the groundwork for this achievement.

“The establishment of the Agribusiness Incubation Centre stands as a testament to his dedication to empowering our farmers, fostering innovation, and strengthening Fiji’s agribusiness ecosystem,” said Hon. Tunabuna.

The ABI Centre is funded by the European Union’s Sustainable Transformation of Domestic Agrifood Systems (STODAS) project and implemented through the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).

The initiative supports the goals of the Non-Sugar Agriculture Sector Policy 2025–2035, which envisions a dynamic, diversified, and climate-smart agriculture sector.

“Unlike a conventional facility, the Agribusiness Incubation Centre serves as a one-stop hub for nurturing new agribusinesses and transforming smallholder operations into competitive enterprises. It provides access to tools, training, mentorship, and market opportunities for farmers, youth, and women-led businesses.”

Key features of the Centre include:

Comprehensive business support: Guidance and resources covering every stage of the agribusiness journey.

Tailored training: Mentorship in agribusiness management, value chain development, and post-harvest handling.

Market facilitation: Linkages with exporters, processors, and retailers to boost domestic and export trade.

Incubation cohorts: Intensive coaching and shared workspaces for promising agripreneurs to collaborate and innovate.

Climate-smart focus: Promotion of sustainable and resilient farming practices.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises & Communication and the Fiji Crops & Livestock Council, the government is repurposing an existing agricultural institute to host the ABI Centre.

The upgraded facility will include modern laboratories, demonstration plots, a business resource library, and conference spaces — creating a fully integrated environment for learning and enterprise development.

Hon. Tunabuna acknowledged the vital role of international and local partners in making the project a reality.

“We are deeply grateful to the European Union and the FAO for their unwavering support. Yet, the real drivers of success will be our farmers, innovators, and agripreneurs — the people whose ideas and energy will shape Fiji’s agricultural future.”

The establishment of the Agribusiness Incubation Centre reflects Fiji’s growing focus on inclusive and sustainable agricultural transformation — one that empowers rural communities, creates jobs, and enhances food security in the face of global challenges.

“If we back our youth, invest in our women, and support our micro, small, and medium enterprises, we will see transformation — from smallholder farms evolving into thriving agribusinesses to rural communities enjoying

Together, we can build a resilient agricultural sector that not only feeds our people but also fuels our nation’s future.”

He called on all stakeholders to rally behind the initiative and to imagine a future where farming is viewed as a modern, respected career — where innovation drives productivity, and where Fijian products proudly reach international markets.

“The Agribusiness Incubation Centre is more than an initiative — it’s a lever for change. Together, let us build an agriculture sector that not only feeds our people but also fuels our nation’s future,” said Hon. Tunabuna.

He also paid tribute to the late Mr. Suliasi Taukete Tupou, a long-serving staff member at the Livestock Dairy Section of the Koronivia Research Station, whose dedication and quiet commitment left a lasting legacy.

“We honour his service and pray that his family finds comfort during this time of sorrow. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” added Hon. Tunabuna.

ENDS