Wagyu beef breed to boost livestock industry
AGRICULTURE and Waterways Minister Vatimi Rayalu says the birth and introduction of the most expensive and premium Wagyu beef breed in Fiji has opened up a world of opportunities in our livestock industry.
During the launch of the first Wagyu beef breed offspring born in Fiji through Embryo Transfer technology (ET) on Wednesday, he said Fiji can now anticipate to address local market gaps.
“This is a breakthrough for the Fijian Government to have premium beef breeds in Fiji, the very first of its kind,” Mr Rayalu said.
“The quality of Wagyu beef meets the standards required by hotel guests.
“It ensures the taste, texture and cuts of beef are of superior quality and has excellent marbling characteristics which add quality flavor to taste in either steak, barbecue or cooked with anything.
“Majority of our local hotels currently serve beef cuisines from imported beef products; however, these breeds will add quality meat products to the tourism sector as well.”
He said Wagyu breed originated from Japan and its meat product is very expensive.
“It’s delicious and has become a popular cuisine in many countries. Now that we have this breed in Fiji, more research and development work will be conducted to establish this breed and expand the genetic base.”
He said over the years, the total value of agriculture export had increased from $68.8 million in 2017 to $121.3 million in 2021 indicating an average growth rate of 41.7 per cent.
“Fiji imported around $11.2m of beef meat in 2021 and is largely reliant on beef imports for consumption. Fiji also relies on imported milk, rice, sheep meat, potatoes and beef for our daily nutritional needs.”
Mr Rayalu said apart from Senepol and Brown Swiss, the Ministry of Agriculture was now on its way to rear and develop two additional prime quality breeds in Fiji through embryo transfer technology.
“Wagyu calving has started in Koronivia and the Droughtmaster calving to followup at Sigatoka Research Station by mid of this month. “To date, I am pleased to announce that we have four Wagyu Calves on ground and more is expected by end of this month, January 2023.”