The China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting aligns with ongoing agricultural technological exchanges. In China's Jiangsu Province, agricultural experts focus on advancing vegetable cultivation in the Pacific, particularly in Fiji and Vanuatu.
Diao Weiping, from the Institute of Vegetable Crops at Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, plans to visit these locations to provide technical assistance. "Peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers are among the most widely consumed vegetables in Pacific Island countries. Still, many are currently imported from Australia and New Zealand at very high prices — a single bell pepper can cost 100 yuan ($13.90). My main goal in going there is to provide technical support for vegetable cultivation."
The adaptation of crops like cucumbers to Fiji's climate is proving effective, benefiting local cultivation and markets. "There's a farmer in Fiji who wanted to grow cucumbers. We taught him how to improve cultivation, including soil improvement, fertilization, and the use of appropriate regulators. His yields are now very high — he told me he can harvest hundreds of kilos daily. Many restaurants now order from him, and he's delighted," according to Diao.
These initiatives aim to boost agricultural self-reliance, critical for food security and dietary improvements in Pacific islands. Moreover, skill development in agriculture is a focal point. Zou Yi, from the International Cooperation Department of the Jiangsu Academy, notes, "We have been training agricultural officials and cultivating practical skills for enterprises and large-scale growers to help them adopt new technologies."
Source: CGTN