Fiji has achieved a significant milestone with the successful export of a three-tonne commercial trial shipment of Ripley Queen pineapples to New Zealand. Coordinated through the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways’ Agriculture Trade & Marketing Research Programme, the shipment showcased the quality and export potential of locally grown pineapples.
Minister for Agriculture and Waterways Tomasi Tunabuna acknowledged the collaborative efforts of farmers, exporters, partner agencies, and stakeholders who contributed to the trial export. He noted that the achievement reflects growing confidence in Fiji’s ability to supply premium produce while supporting initiatives to expand agricultural exports.
The Ripley Queen variety has already generated positive interest in New Zealand for its sweetness, robust flavour, and strong shelf life. Minister Tunabuna emphasised that the trial’s success aligns with broader goals to diversify Fiji’s agriculture sector, improve market access, and enhance income opportunities for rural communities.
The shipment met all biosecurity and quality standards set by New Zealand authorities, marking an important step toward sustained export growth. The Ministry will continue to monitor market performance and provide ongoing support to farmers and exporters as discussions progress on expanding supply to New Zealand and other international markets.
Ripley Queen pineapples are a variety of dwarf pineapple known for their very sweet taste, pleasant aroma, and distinctive spiky leaves. They are typically cultivated in regions such as Queensland, Australia, and are prized for their non-fibrous flesh and relatively small size, weighing around 1.36 to 2.7 kg. Best enjoyed fresh, they are not well-suited for canning.
