Kava plants welfare

Miniter for Trade Manoa Kamikamica says Fiji has adopted the “Fiji Kava Standard” based on CODEX to ensure the welfare of kava plants during transport and prevent the spread of disease.

In addressing participants of the CODEX meeting on Denarau Island yesterday, the minister highlighted that the Pacific region had also taken steps to address trade issues in relation to kava, by implementing CODEX guidelines for the international trade of kava.

“Kava is a traditional beverage and a valuable export crop for many Pacific Island countries,” Mr Kamikamica said.

“The Codex work in the region would not have progressed without the support and collaboration of our regional members and organizations experts such as the UN WHO (World Health Organization) and UN FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization).

“The Pacific region has made significant progress in implementing CODEX guidelines and one example of this progress is the establishment of a regional CODEX committee, which serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and best practices among countries in the Pacific region.

“This committee also works closely with the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) to ensure that CODEX guidelines are being properly implemented and to address any challenges that may arise.”

Mr Kamikamica also encouraged participants of the week-long meeting to share their experiences and best practices with one another in order to improve overall understanding of the issues at hand.

He added that by working together and sharing knowledge and expertise, “we will be able to make a real difference in food safety standards, and achieve more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems”.