Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment Dr Mahendra Reddy says the non-sugar cane agriculture sector in Fiji is growing.
He told Parliament that agricultural produce exports had surpassed the $100 million mark.
“Of the period 2010-2019, the nonsugar cane agriculture GDP grew at a compound rate of 6.3 per cent,” said Mr Reddy.
“It increased from $343.6 million in 2010 to $630.2 million in 2019 – a massive 83.6 per cent of increase.
“The return on investment, every dollar that we invest in agriculture, provides $9 in the agriculture sector.
“In 2019-2020 period, the return on investment in agriculture, every dollar that you invest, the Government money that we invest in agriculture provides return of $9, compared to 57 cents in the sugar sector.”
Mr Reddy said in 2020, agricultural outputs compared to 2013 increased by 97.2 per cent.
“We will continue to support agricultural growth and development so that while the agriculture sector grows and develops, all those engaged in the agricultural sector will continue to benefit.
“We are also doing a lot of work in terms of promoting the core high value procurement that is pushing our export sector.
“We have turned around the rice industry, thanks to Fiji Rice Ltd for supporting or for the initiative.
“Also thanks to the government of China for providing us support with regards to the agriculture machinery.”
