By ANISH CHAND

Rice production in Fiji has experienced notable fluctuations over the past five years, according to figures tabled in Parliament following a question by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu.

The data, tabled by Minister for Public Enterprises, Charan Jeath Singh shows national production peaked in 2022 at 13,355.97 tonnes before dropping sharply to 6,724 tonnes in 2023. Output recovered modestly in 2024 to 8,597.50 tonnes, highlighting ongoing instability in the sector.

Production figures for Fiji Rice Limited also reflect similar trends. The company recorded 1,322 tonnes in 2020, 1,276 tonnes in 2021, and a peak of 1,685 tonnes in 2022, before declining to 1,098 tonnes in 2023 and rising again to 1,301 tonnes in 2024.

Mr Singh said targeted interventions are now underway to stabilise production and reduce reliance on imports.

“Fiji Rice Limited, together with the Ministry and stakeholders, has put in place several targeted plans and incentives to improve rice production and reduce reliance on imports,” Mr Singh told Parliament.

A major focus is increasing farmer participation, with plans to mobilise up to 2,500 farmers, particularly smallholders and new entrants.

“This initiative targets an average supply of one tonne per farmer while promoting rice cultivation in suitable cane and fallow land areas,” he said.

The Government is also aiming to scale up commercial output by supporting established farmers already producing more than 20 tonnes.

“There is a strong focus on scaling up commercial farmer output, including assessments on land capacity, irrigation access, mechanisation and expansion potential,” Mr Singh said.

Support packages are being strengthened to include improved seed varieties, mechanised land preparation, harvesting support, fertiliser assistance and agronomic guidance. Performance-based incentives are also being introduced to boost productivity.

Mr Singh added that Fiji Rice Limited is working with cooperatives supported by the iTaukei Land Trust Board to unlock larger contiguous land areas for rice farming.

The initiatives form part of broader efforts to enhance food security and reduce Fiji’s dependence on imported rice.

Published Date: April 28, 2026