The way forward to improving the quality and exports of Fijian taro is now clearer with the availability of a new Fiji Dalo Quality Manual which was launched last week at Navatukia Village in Serea, Naitasiri.

The manual has been developed by the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with taro industry stakeholders including growers and traders, and the Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access.

The workshop and launch of the Taro Quality Manual was held in the interior of Naitasiri in recognition of the hardworking farmers and communities producing taro in the area for local and exports markets.

With approximately 37,000 taro farms around the country, Permanent Secretary for Agriculture, David Kolitagane highlighted to dalo farmers the importance of the Fiji Dalo Quality Manual in assisting the majority of the taro farms around the country.

Fiji exports 60% of its dalo to New Zealand, Australia and America raking in a value of around $20-24million.