November 18, 2025 | FBC News |
Fiji has made its first commercial trial shipment of pineapples to New Zealand, sending three tons of Ripley Queen fruit on November 5. Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna said the shipment was possible thanks to cooperation between the Ministry, Biosecurity Fiji, Pacific Trade Invest New Zealand, Fiji Airways, exporters, and farmers in the Western Division.
New Zealand consumers have already given positive feedback, praising the pineapples’ sweetness, strong flavor, and long shelf life. The trial shipment was arranged after connections formed at Fiji’s first National Agriculture Mini-Trade Forum, which linked Fijian and New Zealand partners.
The Ministry says this success shows Fiji’s growing ability to meet international standards and strict biosecurity rules. Officials will monitor the pineapples’ performance in New Zealand and continue supporting farmers and exporters. Tunabuna also encouraged the Fijian community in New Zealand to help promote the product.
