Aust open to raw kava export

Kava exports can now include frozen raw and dried material, Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access (PHAMA Plus) has said.

It is the latest development in the commercial kava pilot programme, which was launched last year.

It follows the Australian authorities decision to resume commercial exports of kava powder and kava beverages from December 1, 2021.

PHAMA Plus, an Australian aid agency, said approximately 46 tonnes of kava was imported to Australia between December 2021 and April 7.

Of that volume, 33 per cent failed to comply with labelling requirements.

Importer details, lot codes, country of origin and required warning statements, were not provided in labelling, PHAMA Plus said.

“WE ARE WORKING WITH OUR PACIfiC STAKEholders to improve compliance and understanding of the requirements,” PHAMA Plus said.

The 193 exporters and suppliers under the pilot programme were from six countries, largely fromFiji, Tonga, Vanuatu and New Zealand.