Fiji has officially joined the global specialty coffee scene with the launch of ONA Coffee Fiji in Rakiraki, a move celebrated as a transformative moment for rural communities and the national economy.
Speaking at the launch event on Friday at Duadua Beach Resort, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs and Communications Manoa Kamikamica described the initiative as a major step in economic diversification and agri-export innovation.
“This is not just a commercial venture,” said the DPM.
“It is an investment in the future of our farmers, our rural communities, and our place in the global specialty coffee market.”
The launch drew a diverse crowd of multinational stakeholders, government officials, farmers’ representatives, and school students. More than the arrival of a respected international brand, ONA Coffee Fiji signals a bold national ambition: to place Fijian-grown coffee on the world map.
Led globally by World Barista Champion Sasa Sestic, ONA Coffee’s Fiji operations are being spearheaded locally by Maheer Prasad. The company is working with 30 farmers in the Ra province, planting one million high-quality seedlings across 500 acres. The varieties selected—Arabica and Liberica—are globally competitive and suited to Fiji’s environment.
Beyond farming, ONA Coffee Fiji aims to build processing facilities in Rakiraki and other parts of the country. This localised approach will generate employment, build technical expertise, and retain greater economic value within communities.
“From planting to processing, the value chain remains rooted in the community,” said Kamikamica, underlining the significance of local ownership and capacity-building.
Specialty coffee joins the ranks of other successful Fijian commodities such as yaqona, ginger, and turmeric, as the government works to diversify its export portfolio. Kamikamica said the government’s role in this transformation is facilitative and collaborative, citing updated legislation, streamlined investment processes, and multi-agency support mechanisms.
“Inclusivity and access are key to the transformation,” he said, noting improvements such as land tenure arrangements with iTaukei communities, creating an Agriculture Business Taskforce, and updated immigration policies for foreign investors.
Technological innovation is also playing a role. With Starlink and Google connectivity services rolled out in 2024, even the most remote farms will have real-time access to markets and information.
“Improved connectivity is a game-changer for our agriculture sector,”
Kamikamica added.
For local farmers, the launch of ONA Coffee Fiji offers not just income but dignity, pride, and renewed purpose.
“You are the backbone of this industry,” Kamikamica told the farmers present.
“With your knowledge and hard work, we can grow a product that commands premium prices abroad and builds pride at home.”
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