Pacific organic farming interests discuss how to meet international standards

Delegates from several Pacific countries are meeting in Suva, to finalise standards for organic produce.

The global organic produce market is worth up to 18 billion US dollars, but Pacific farmers need to meet accepted standards to tap into the market.

A project has been running since 2006, involving a regional organic taskforce, supported by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community, to develop regional organic standards.

Hiva Levi, the chairman of the Niue organic farmers association, says initially the focus will be getting into the New Zealand and Australian markets.