Pacific kava industry leaders convened in Nuku’alofa to advance efforts for improved global market access and cultural preservation.
Representatives from Pacific kava-producing nations met in Nuku’alofa on Monday, along side the Pacific Week of Agriculture and Forestry event, to address key challenges in expanding kava’s international market reach. The meeting focused on two primary work streams: enhancing market access to the European Union and other global markets, and safeguarding the cultural heritage associated with kava.
The gathering included public and private sector stakeholders, such as Vanuatu’s Director General for the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry and Biosecurity, Mr. Timothy Tumukon, who chairs the Forum Kava Working Group. Also present were chairs of national kava committees, farmers, manufacturers, exporters, and representatives from national business associations.
A significant outcome of the discussions was the agreement to proceed with sectoral and national consultations on the draft Kava Declaration. This declaration aims for endorsement at the upcoming Pacific Trade Ministers Meeting in July and the Forum Leaders Meeting in September.
The Regional Kava Development Strategy (RKDS), endorsed in principle by Forum Trade Ministers in 2023, serves as the foundation for these initiatives. The RKDS focuses on protecting kava’s intellectual property, ensuring quality standards, and promoting sustainable economic benefits for Pacific communities.
The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, in collaboration with the Pacific Community and supported by the European Union-funded SPIRIT project, leads the implementation of the RKDS. This collective approach aims to unify Pacific nations in their efforts to strengthen the kava industry’s global presence while preserving its cultural significance.
