SAY ‘BULA!’ TO FIJI’S FINEST ORGANICS
BLESSED WITH ABUNDANT SUNSHINE AND FERTILE SOIL, AND ENTREPRENEURS KEEN TO ADD VALUE TO LOCAL PRODUCE AND SUPPORT INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES, FIJI’S HIGH VALUE ORGANIC PRODUCT SECTOR IS BOOMING, AND NEW ZEALAND’S FOOD MANUFACTURING AND RETAIL INDUSTRY IS ALRE
Fiji’s high value organic product sector is booming and New Zealand’s food manufacturing and retail industry is already reaping the benefits.
Right now Fiji’s organic products sector is fizzing, and for good reason.
The Fiji Trade Commission to Australia and New Zealand is charged with opening pathways for Fijian products into AU and NZ markets. Peter Rudd, Manager Trade and Investment (NZ) believes the upswing is the result of global consumers increasingly questioning the origins of products, who’s behind them, and the conditions in which they are made.
“People are also more aware of the benefits that organic products have on their health, and New Zealand is no exception.
“However, there’re only certain commodities that can be supplied locally, so trade partners are vital. And with its tropical climate and fertile soil ideal for growing fruit and vegetables organically, and its proximity and close diplomatic relations, Fiji is an ideal supplier for New Zealand companies. Many expats have noticed this and have been investing in the sector.” Rudd is referring to profitable Fiji businesses that empower women and contribute to mitigating climate change
“Ranadi Organics is an example of a successful business that clearly understands the international opportunity,” he says, “having achieved Global GAP, USDA Organic and HACCP certification – among others.”
Guaranteeing supply chain traceability opens opportunities across New Zealand, Australia and the US, Rudd says. “With the support of Kiwi businesses, more Fiji businesses could follow Ranadi’s example and supply the entire international market.”
NEW INITIATIVES
The Fiji Trade Commission to New Zealand has already made rapid progress on trade initiatives between Fiji and New Zealand in the organic sector. A trade visit last September saw Huckleberry, the organic grocer, buying USDAcertified organic ginger, turmeric, pawpaw and coconut on a weekly basis. Bula Batiki was another beneficiary with sales of its premium virgin coconut oil, says Rudd, and closer relations have been forged with importers/distributors Turners and Growers and Fresh Direct.
Fijian companies also pitched their organic products to Countdown and it’s hoped that this will result in more products on shelves by the end of 2020.
“Our focus is on raising awareness and delivering the message that Fiji offers fair, organic and sustainable trade alternatives,” says Rudd. “The main benefit for New Zealand businesses trading with Fiji, is offering Kiwi consumers products that are good for their health, align with their values and support indigenous communities.”
For further information please contact: Camila. Eiras@investinfiji.today www.investinfiji.today • + 64 9 363 2743