Government says strengthening Fiji’s food security remains a key priority in the 2026-2027 National Budget, with increased funding for the agriculture sector aimed at helping farmers cope with the ongoing global fuel crisis and reducing the country’s reliance on imported food.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Sugar Industry has been allocated $172.8 million in the 2026-2027 Budget, an increase from $163.5 million in the previous financial year, an increase of $9.3 million, or about 5.7 percent.

Minister for Agriculture and Sugar Industry Tomasi Tunabuna said the increased allocation will support farming households and rural communities facing higher production and transportation costs caused by rising global fuel prices.

He said the funding is designed to help farmers manage the impact of the fuel crisis while supporting the sector through a challenging global economic environment.

Tunabuna said the budget also places strong emphasis on food security through import substitution, with the goal of increasing local food production and reducing Fiji’s dependence on imported food.

He said improving domestic food production will help address food supply challenges and ensure greater resilience as global economic pressures continue.

The increased allocation comes as Government looks to strengthen the agriculture sector’s contribution to the economy while improving food availability and affordability for Fijians.