Fiji’s agriculture exports have bounced-back from the uncertainty of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent impact on global trade volumes. There has been sustained demand for Fijian products in international markets, notably that of the agriculture sector. The Fiji Bureau of Statistics noted Fiji’s agriculture exports in 2020 increased from 2019 for a variety of goods, including Kava, Turmeric, Coconut Oil, Ginger and Taro.
There has been a rise in global demand for Fijian Turmeric in recent years due to the benefits turmeric boasts, both as a superfood and as an ingredient in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Currently, 97.87% of Fiji’s turmeric exports go to the US and are worth US$9.15 million, 2.06% go to New Zealand and are worth US$192,780, and the remainder goes to Japan.
Among others, there are three main companies growing/commercialising turmeric in Fiji; Island Magic grows USDA Certified Organic Turmeric on foothills across the main island of Viti Levu and exports mainly to the US; Ranadi Organics grows organic ginger and turmeric for Redshoots for the award winning immunity health tonic shots brand Daily Good; and Tavulomo Coconuts, based in Vanua Levu, specialises in Virgin Coconut Oil, but have recently launched their cold pressed turmeric, ginger and lime health shots.
Ginger has additionally seen an uptick in demand during the pandemic, with a number of health benefits, is a well known alternative medicine and health product in international markets. Aiding with digestion, anti-nausea, cold and flu symptoms, it is an incredibly important agricultural export commodity for Fiji, growing more in demand each year. Ginger experienced an increase in exports of FJ$2.7 million (207%) in 2020.
This provides opportunity for Fijian producers, as many overseas consumers such as those in the US, Japan and New Zealand are desiring more and more turmeric and ginger.