President of the Republic of Fiji Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has challenged the Ministry of Agriculture and Fiji Rice Farmers Limited to strengthen their support for local farmers by providing the necessary resources to grow Fiji’s rice industry.
Speaking at the Rice Farmers Awards held in Muanidevo Sanatan Dharam Primary School at Dreketi, President Lalabalavu emphasised that rice has become a staple food in Fiji, local production cannot meet demand, necessitating imports. He cited Thailand’s success in rice and cassava production, noting how the Southeast Asian nation not only plants but also exports on a large scale.
“Rice has been around in Fiji for many years, but to ensure that we become self-sufficient and for the industry to thrive, we must all work together — Government, industry stakeholders, and farmers alike,” President Lalabalavu said.
He reaffirmed Government's commitment to the sector, highlighting the $115.3 million allocation for agriculture in the 2025–2026 National Budget — a $14 million increase from the previous year — with $2.7 million directed specifically towards rice research, farming, and irrigation schemes.
The Head of State also acknowledged Fiji Rice Limited’s achievements, including an increase in paddy supply from 1,301 tonnes in 2024 to 1,654 tonnes in 2025, with Viti Levu’s contribution growing from 17 tonnes to 119 tonnes over the same period. He attributed this progress to the Government-driven drainage programme and the operationalisation of the Nailaga Rice Mill in Ba.
At the same time, he noted areas requiring further investment, particularly in milling and paddy storage facilities, while commending Fiji Rice Limited’s $150,000 investment in planting grants that supported 182 farmers nationwide during the 2024 season.
The Head of State encouraged subsistence farmers, women, and youth to pursue opportunities in rice farming, noting that of Fiji’s 672 registered rice farmers, only 38 are women. He urged greater use of Ministry of Agriculture extension services and stronger collaboration across the sector.
“On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank rice farmers, your efforts to sustain us are noted, acknowledged, and appreciated. But I also remind our stakeholders that for Fiji’s rice industry to reach its full potential, we must continue to invest, innovate, and work hand-in-hand,” the President said.
Sharing similar sentiments Cabinet Ministers present including the Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Hon Biman Prasad, Minister for Agriculture Hon Tomasi Tunabuna and Minister for Environment and Climate Change Hon Mosese Bulitavu emphasised their commitment to work together to assist rice farmers grow the industry.
The Fiji Rice Board Chairman, Mr. Raj Sharma, acknowledged the President's call for greater action and outlined the company’s plans to further strengthen the sector.
“Fiji Rice Limited is committed to modernising rice farming in Fiji by investing in farm mechanisation, upgrading storage facilities such as at the Nailaga Mill, and expanding training and irrigation projects for our farmers. We are also exploring new research collaborations to improve crop yield and sustainability,” Mr Sharma said.
He added that Fiji Rice would continue to work closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and farmer associations to reduce the nation’s rice import dependency and increase local production for food security.
As part of the ceremony, outstanding farmers and contributors to the rice industry were recognised in the following award categories:
· Youth Farmer
· Best New Farmer – Northern Division
· Best New Farmer – Western Division
· Lifetime Contribution
· Special Contribution – China Rice & SRIF
· Highest Paddy Supplier
· Best iTaukei Farmer
· Best Female Farmer
· Best Overall Farmer – 2025 Season
The President congratulated all recipients and commended sponsors for their commitment to uplifting farming communities. “Accolades are not just rewards, but also reminders of the lessons learned through the year. Let us continue to grow this industry together,” he said.
Fiji imported over $50 million worth of rice in 2022, equivalent to roughly 37,000 metric tonnes, while only 880 tonnes were produced locally. The Government has therefore made rice production a national priority, with increased investment and collaboration aimed at closing the gap, reducing the import bill, and building a resilient, self-sufficient Fiji.
