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BAF examines ginger quality

July 28, 2016 10:16 pm

The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji is working with Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources to improve the $12 million fresh Ginger export pathway to ensure that Fijian Ginger is pest free.

The Australian Authorities identified Quarantine pests of concern including the Yam Yam Scale (Aspidiellla hartii) and burrowing nematode (Radhophilis similis) which needs to be managed.

A team of Scientists from Queensland Department of Agriculture, and BAF conducted experiments on the Fijian Fresh Ginger for Yam Scale (Aspidiellla hartii) and burrowing nematode (Radhophilis similis).

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The team conducted a one week survey to check the disease and pest status of Fijian Ginger farms and commercial Ginger Producing areas.

Samples of the Fijian fresh Ginger have been taken to Australia for further experiments.

2009 to 2011 export earnings from mature and immature ginger was around $6million but it increased significantly to $12million by 2015.