EXPORT ISSUES FOR FIJI TARO TO AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

There has been considerable focus in recent years on the taro export supply chain in Fiji, and the Pacific as a whole, with the objective of improving and expanding export opportunities. There are still, however, significant impediments that are yet to be overcome before this objective can be achieved. Major quality and phytosanitary issues in the supply chain continue to hinder current access, and, if left unchecked, could result in a reduction in opportunities rather than a desired expansion.

Key words: Taro, taro corms, quarantine, biosecurity, phytosanitary requirements, consignment, export pathway, middle buyer, processing, nematodes, quality, mites, mealybugs, disease, freight