Staff Reporter
Auckland, October 17, 2021
Fresh and chilled crops of Fiji find ready markets overseas and hence it is imperative that exporters ensure compliance of all safeguards and biosecurity standards, Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment Dr Mahendra Reddy has said.
Bilateral quarantine agreements should be observed by all stakeholders along the export value-chain locally so as not to compromise mutually agreed terms.
Dr Reddy was speaking at an event to commemorate the commissioning of the new export facility of Kumar’s in Bilalevu, Valley Road in Sigatoka on October 16, 2021.
Fiji’s global brand image
“Fiji has a brand image, we should not mess around with the brand image. The moment we lose it, we lose the special feature of what makes Fijian produce so highly sought after. The responsibility lies with exporters of fresh or chilled produce,” he said.
Dr Reddy said that attempts to make a profit must never be done through unethical practices that could jeopardise established export markets.
“It is important that all of us, from farmers and workers to labourers and exporters take steps to protect our brand image and I ask all exporters to ensure that biosecurity requirements are fulfilled. Time and again, there will be that one exporter who chooses to take the easy way and does not meet the requirements of the export market,” he said.
Violation can be expensive
Dr Reddy said that non-compliance has cost the National dearly in the past, leading to lost export markets and suspended pathways.
“We cannot afford to lose these export pathways and therefore it is critical that we adhere to all biosecurity requirements. there must not be any adulteration of any sort,” he stressed.
Kumar’s Exports Director Mohit Kumar said that he and his company were committed to develop the export markets and promote value-added engagements.
“We pledge to uphold all relevant requirements regarding the export of our products,” he said.
