June 17, 2020

Sun, sand and uncertainty: the promise and peril of a Pacific tourism bubble

Pacific nations have largely avoided the worst health effects of COVID-19, but its economic impact has been devastating. With the tourism tap turned off, unemployment has soared while GDP has plummeted. In recent weeks, Fiji Airways laid off 775 employees and souvenir business Jack’s of Fiji laid off 500. In Vanuatu 70% of tourism workers have lost their jobs. Cook Islands is estimated to have experienced a 60% drop in GDP in the past three months. In response, many are calling for the Pacific to be included in the proposed trans-Tasman travel corridor. CLICK HEADLINE TO READ

Nadarivatu farmers get contracts to supply to AMA

Sixty eight farmers of Nubu in Nadarivatu will benefit from selling their produce to the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA). These contracted farmers will be required to commit 125 acres of their mataqali land to be used for the planting of dalo, celery, and carrots. Minister of Agriculture Dr. Mahendra Reddy said the climatic conditions of Nadarivatu is feasible for carrots and celery also highlighting the need for import substitution. CLICK ON HEADLINE TO READ

NZ gives $210k to PM’s cyclone relief fund

NEW ZEALAND has given $150,000 NZD this week towards cyclone relief and diverted the cash to the Prime Minister’s National Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund. A statement from the Fijian government announced the New Zealand Government donated the approximately FJD $210k towards Government’s response as part of a total package worth $2million. CLICK ON HEADLINE TO READ

Yellow Cassava in demand in Australia

A new variety of cassava is now in huge demand in Australia and the local market, a recent survey found. The survey finding has prompted the Ministry of Agriculture to launch a drive to encourage production of the crop. A new yellow cassava variety, named the Beqa Variety Yellow Cassava was launched this week Nataleira Village Community Hall in Dawasamu, Tailevu. CLICK ON HEADLINE
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