BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Kava exporters with officials from the Ministry of Agriculture & Livestock (MAL) and the Ministry of Commerce met yesterday to better understand Fiji’s import requirements.

A statement from the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI) yesterday said that Fiji’s import requirements are an important step towards expanding regional trade.

The meeting was organised by SICCI, Export Department, according to the SICCI statement.

SICCI said the meeting highlighted the vital role of kava in supporting Pacific livelihoods.

“Exporters welcomed the opportunity to trade with Fiji, recognising both the challenges ahead and the importance of working together,” said SICCI.

SICCI further said that Kava quality starts from the field where every step along the export value chain matters, from planting, pest and disease management, to harvesting and processing.

According to SICCI, success requires all stakeholders to work together and share knowledge.

“The idea of market access for our kava farmers is exciting. It means creating opportunities for our communities in rural areas, creating an enabling environment for exports, and making agriculture appealing again,” said SICCI in their statement.

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