Kava could become a major industry for Fiji

Fiji sees kava as a potential major source of income, but the government says the industry must first become more regulated and reliable.

Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica said Fiji currently exports kava under a trial arrangement and has not reached its full export potential. Australia is a particular target for expansion, with strong demand already reported in overseas markets.

The government is working to remove the trial arrangement and plans to table a new Kava Bill in Parliament. The legislation would strengthen regulation, improve product quality and protect farmers. Kamikamica said the rules are not intended to discourage growers, but to support a safe and sustainable industry.

He said disease concerns remain among the challenges facing the sector. Overseas feedback, including from the United States, has also called for Fiji to improve regulation and quality control. Kamikamica warned against an unregulated industry, particularly because kava already makes an important contribution to the economy.

With additional support and investment, he said, Fiji’s kava industry could expand and become a larger contributor to national income.

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The last thing you want is an unregulated industry, particularly when it’s a significant contributor to the economy. The quality can be an issue.