Good news for farmers with the announcement that the export of fresh chillies from Fiji into Australia with a valid import permit.

This, following several months of negotiations and collaborative efforts between the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF), and Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).

The success of this collaboration was reached through technical negotiations and in-country discussions.

“We are delighted to have reached this significant milestone in our collaboration with DAFF” said Nitesh Datt, Chief Plant Protection Officer (CPPO), at BAF.

“This achievement not only opens up new opportunities for trade but also strengthens the cooperation between our two nations on matters relating to biosecurity that underpins market access and preservation of production and ecosystems.

“We look forward to delivering fresh and flavoursome chillies to Australian consumers in the coming months, while contributing to the prosperity of farmers in Fiji”.

Mr Datt added that for Fiji farmers and exporters to fully capitalise on the opportunity, it was imperative to engage various market actors and programs to develop market-related support for fresh chillies from Fiji.

Collaborative efforts involving government agencies, industry stakeholders, and trade organisations will be crucial in supporting Fiji’s exporters to navigate regulatory requirements, enhance product quality, and maximise the benefits of this newfound market access.

Funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through the Pacific Biosecurity Partnership Program within the office of Australia’s Chief Plant Protection Officer, Dr Gabrielle Vivian-Smith expressed her enthusiasm for the export pathway created through collaboration and cooperation between the two governments.

“This collaboration’s market access opens up more opportunities for Fijian exporters,” she said.

“Achieving market access for fresh chillies from Fiji symbolises not just a transaction but a testament to the diligent technical negotiations, the facilitatory spirit, and the commitment to strengthen our Pacific family relationships. It underscores our shared resolve to cooperate and coordinate on critical biosecurity issues, fostering mutual trust and sustainable agricultural partnerships.”

The Government of Fiji and BAF CEO Micheal Bartlett expressed their gratitude to DAFF and the Australian Government for their cooperation and commitment throughout the negotiation process.