Medicinal Cannabis on the Horizon – Fiji’s Export-Only Gamble

By early 2024, Fiji was ready for the next level. In February, the Cabinet formally approved a policy framework to establish a medicinal cannabis industry focused exclusively on cultivation and export. After nationwide consultations, they partnered with New Zealand-based Aether Pacific Pharmaceuticals (trading as Medical Kiwi) and commissioned a detailed feasibility study with Australian government support.

The goal: attract foreign investment, create jobs, and tap into the booming global medicinal cannabis market without allowing domestic medical or recreational access. Cabinet later approved the drafting of specific legislation (late 2024), with officials stating the bill would be introduced in 2025. As of April 2026, that legislation has not yet been tabled in Parliament, but the process continues through ongoing reviews and consultations.

This export-only model is classic Fiji pragmatism: minimize domestic risk and reputational damage while chasing economic gains. Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has emphasized thorough legislation to balance opportunity with safeguards against illicit diversion. The industry is expected to diversify beyond tourism and support rural landowners.

Yet the gap between policy and reality frustrates many. While foreign companies prepare for licensed grows, everyday Fijians caught with even small amounts still face prison. Cancer survivors and patients have begun speaking out during public consultations on the new Counter-Narcotics Bill, sharing personal stories of pain relief from cannabis and calling for regulated medical access at home.

For the stoner community, this chapter shows progress—but it’s progress that benefits outsiders first. The fight now centers on whether Fiji will eventually expand to domestic medicinal use or keep the green gold locked away for export.