Pacific neighbours scale up: Fiji’s fly-feed trials enter phase two as Vanuatu builds capacity
Across the Pacific, governments are testing black soldier fly (BSF) farming as a way to cut dependence on imported feed. Fiji has moved its trials into a second phase, and Vanuatu has just completed an 18-month project to prepare farmers and researchers.
Key facts
- Fiji: Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna told Parliament in May 2026 that trials with Fiji National University showed waste reduction, environmental gains and organic fertiliser from by-products
- Phase two: Fiji’s project is now focused on scaling up insect-based livestock feed, though “extended vetting processes” may delay commercial rollout
- Vanuatu: ACIAR project LS/2024/136 (January 2025 to June 2026, AUD 250,000) led by the Vanuatu Agricultural Research and Technical Centre, with icipe
- The problem: ACIAR notes Pacific countries import almost 100% of their livestock and fish feed
Fiji: promising results, careful rollout
According to The Fiji Times, the minister said mature larvae are a valuable protein source and that livestock farmers are keen to use them. Once fully implemented, the programme is expected to reduce reliance on imported fishmeal and soy. He cautioned that vetting could slow down when farmers get access to BSF for commercial use.
Vanuatu: surveys, mapping and training
Vanuatu’s ACIAR-funded project combined stakeholder surveys, resource mapping, a literature review and on-site training in Kenya to identify where a BSF enterprise could work. The aim is to turn the country’s growing volume of organic waste into feed and reduce the bill for imports.
What it means for PNG
PNG, Fiji and Vanuatu were all part of the same ACIAR and icipe exchange in 2024. Fiji’s experience shows the technology works in Pacific conditions, and that approvals and standards need to be ready before scaling. PNG’s work on a national BSF standard puts it in a good position to move faster.