Agriculture Minister proposes $250m budget to improve the sector

To push the agriculture sector to another level, Agriculture Minister, Vatimi Rayalu will be making a $250 million budget submission.

Rayalu says they currently have a budget of $101.2 million, however, this is not enough to meet the needs of the farmers and rural communities.

He says they have ongoing challenges in both the agriculture and waterways sectors, and they must respond with real investment.

The Minister says this budget submission is about more than just funding, it’s about giving farmers the tools, infrastructure and opportunities they need to thrive.

Rayalu further says it’s about repairing critical waterways infrastructure to protect crops and communities, and it's about adding value to what Fiji produces.

He is confident that the Ministry of Finance will recognise the importance of this submission. He adds that we must grow the agriculture sector together.