The Ministry of Forestry has broadened its agenda beyond timber to highlight the vast potential of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) such as sandalwood, agarwood, bamboo, candlenut and dilo, which officials say can create new industries, boost exports and strengthen rural livelihoods.
Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu on 30 September told Parliament that NTFPs could “bolster Fiji’s economy and support community livelihoods” while positioning the country in billion-dollar global markets.
“Historically, Fiji’s forests have been valued primarily for timber,” Bainivalu said. “However, NTFPs—such as sandalwood, bamboo, agarwood, coconut, and traditional materials—offer significant economic opportunities, with global markets worth billions of dollars annually.”
Expanding scope of forestry
The ministry said that for the first time, NTFPs have been given prominence in the draft Forest Bill 2025, which mentions them more than 10 times. The bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament by November.
At the same time, consultations are underway for a National NTFP Strategy, with a full consultation planned before the end of the year to secure stakeholder input.
Community planting initiatives are also being scaled up under the government’s 30 Million Trees in 15 Years programme, with sandalwood and candlenut identified as priorities.
Research and development
Among the flagship projects are plans for 60 hectares of sandalwood plantations in Tailevu and Bua, the monitoring of existing resources, and research into improved breeds.
On agarwood, more than 4,800 trees have been planted at Nasavusavu, supported by the establishment of Fiji’s first agarwood oil processing facility in partnership with local communities. Officials estimate the venture could generate up to US$167 million in potential revenue.
Bamboo, meanwhile, has emerged as a key innovation sector. In partnership with the Global Green Growth Institute and New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Fiji has begun inventory trials and sent 16 Fijian craftsmen to Indonesia for specialist training.
On World Bamboo Day 2025, Fiji signed an agreement with Indonesia to deepen industry collaboration and strengthen the bamboo value chain.
Economic and cultural value
NTFPs range from plant-based resources such as medicinal plants, resins and oils, to animal products including honey and bushmeat, as well as traditional materials used in handicrafts and cultural practices.
Sandalwood (Yasi) remains Fiji’s flagship NTFP, generating over F$12 million in exports between 2010 and 2022. But Bainivalu said other products—such as candlenut and dilo oil—are gaining recognition in the cosmetics industry, while bamboo presents “a sustainable material for construction and handicrafts” that also contributes to climate change mitigation.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite the promise, officials concede that the sector faces challenges, including a lack of processing facilities, quality standards and sustainable harvesting practices, particularly on customary lands.
Bainivalu said these gaps underscore the urgency of policy reforms. “Developing NTFPs offers a pathway for inclusive, sustainable growth that benefits both the economy and rural communities across Fiji,” she said.
