The performance of the Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access (PHAMA) Program and its future is being examined this week at a meeting in Fiji.

PHAMA’s work in export market facilitation in six target countries will be assessed. Consultations that were undertaken by the PHAMA design team with government and industry in various countries for the next phase of the program, PHAMA Plus, will also be discussed.

According to an impact report launched last year by PHAMA, the program has positively impacted around 142,200 livelihoods and 5,600 jobs in the Pacific.

The program has also established new market access submissions, improved trade infrastructure, treatment protocols, food safety accreditation and the introduction of quality standards.

PCC chair and Australian High Commission Counsellor, Matt Lapworth said, “PHAMA is one of the Australian Government’s key aid for trade investments in the Pacific, positively impacting growth and lives”.

PHAMA is an aid for trade program initiated by the Australian Government and co-funded by the New Zealand Government. It promotes Pacific exports of fresh and value-added agricultural products by working with government representatives including the private and public sector. It also helps exporters to be able to meet their trading partner’s regulatory requirements and quality standards.

Through technical assistance and funding, PHAMA also helps governments and private sector partners open new market access, re-open and maintain existing access, and improve the quality of export produce.

PHAMA assists Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.