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The Ministry of Agriculture is concerned about the decline in kava quality, warning that it threatens both domestic and international trade.
Deputy Minister Inosi Kuridlani yesterday told kava farmers in Nkuirau, Navosa region that poor quality was putting the industry’s reputation at risk.
The warning follows reports that other cooking products are being mixed with kava for export.
Citing examples of kava being mixed with flour to bulk up produce, resulting in poor quality, Kridrani said farmers and exporters were urged to take the industry seriously.
“Our current concern is the packaging of kava for export. We drink kava both here in Fiji and overseas, so we are aware of this issue. Last year, it was discovered that some packages of kava being exported to Australia contained flour adulterated with kava. This practice by certain exporters is troubling and we are approaching this issue with great care.”
The minister added that efforts were also being made to regulate the price of kava for the benefit of farmers.
He added that the consultation aims to help farmers secure fair compensation for their hard-earned money.
The ministry is working to regulate kava prices to ensure farmers earn a fair profit.
Different buyers are currently offering different prices, and some buyers come to the village, but ultimately it is the farmer’s choice whether to sell locally or take the kava to the market.
Discussions on the Hippo bill continued today in the hinterland of Navosa.