Source: Ministry of Agriculture

Fiji is taking major steps to strengthen its organic agriculture sector through the development of a National Organic Policy and Action Plan, the Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Tomasi Tunabuna, told Parliament this week.

Tunabuna reaffirmed the coalition government’s commitment to advancing organic farming as a key pillar of sustainable agriculture and rural development.  

He acknowledged the vital role of the Pacific Organic and Ethical Trade Community in shaping regional standards and supporting Fiji’s progress.

He noted that PGS offers a democratic and community-based certification process, allowing farmers to form groups, conduct peer inspections, and ensure compliance with agreed standards — creating ownership and accountability at the grassroots level.

The Ministry is now finalizing the National Organic Policy and Action Plan, which will establish an official national framework and potentially formal government recognition of the PGS process.  

The policy aligns with the Fiji National Development Plan (2025–2029), the Non-Sugar Agriculture Sector 10-Year Policy (2025–2035), and the Strategic Development Plan (2024–2028).

Tunabuna also confirmed that Fiji has ratified the Global GAP Standards and is collaborating with PHAMA Plus to develop a tailored Fiji Good Agricultural Practices Standard — a transitional step toward full organic certification.

The new policy builds on the 2018 draft and incorporates extensive stakeholder consultations.

It outlines key actions to improve farmers’ access to certification, including awareness programs, group certification support, and digital platforms to streamline processes.

The Ministry expects to submit the National Organic Policy to Cabinet before the end of the year.  

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