Assessment of the nutritional value and competitiveness of traditional foods in South Pacific economies: A case study of root crops in Fiji

The consumption of traditional food crops, dominated by root crops, has bee n either stagnating or in decline in South Pacific countries. Governments h ave attempted to reverse this trend through strategies that highlight the i mportance and health benefits of such crops, but with little success. Inade quate knowledge by policy makers of the major causes of the trend is argued to be an important factor contributing to this lack of success. The most i mportant obstacles to developing traditional food crop industries are ident ified by examining factors influencing the supply and demand of tare and ot her root crops in Fiji. On the supply side, attention is given to the const raints on production, storage, processing transport, and marketing. On the demand side, the focus is on various economic, social, and cultural factors identified as the chief determinants of consumption decisions. Suggestions are made for the development of a strategy to improve the competitiveness of root crops in relation to imported foods (especially rice and flour), th at is more effective than current strategies. Policies are suggested to und erpin this strategy, with particular emphasis on the encouragement of produ ctivity gains in production and post-harvest activities. Any strategy to ma ke food industries more competitive in domestic food markets will require a n improved understanding of the factors changing tastes and preferences of domestic consumers. Marketing research programmes for root crops are needed , but will require government support.