Farmers and agricultural producers in Rakiraki could gain better access to regional export markets through a new mapping exercise planned by the Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF).

The initiative, in partnership with the Rakiraki Town Council, will identify active farmers, agricultural activities, available resources and potential cooperatives to strengthen sustainable farming and export opportunities.

PIDF Secretary-General Arpana Pratap said the exercise would assess farmers’ production capacity, land use, resource management and adoption of sustainable farming practices.

She said the findings would help identify areas where farmers need support while connecting local producers to regional supply chains through the Pacific Fresh Air-Link (PFAL) project.

The project has been facilitating agricultural exports from Nadi to countries in the Northern Pacific, creating opportunities for Fijian producers while improving access to fresh food in island communities.

During a meeting with Rakiraki Town Council Chairman of the Special Administrator Peni Duaniwai, discussions also focused on monitoring farms and identifying ways to improve land use, agriculture and aquaculture development.

The meeting brought together farmers, exporters and business representatives to discuss sustainable development and opportunities under the PFAL project.

Ms Pratap also encouraged farmers to form cooperatives, saying collective production could improve bargaining power and create better access to markets.