Fiji played a significant role in the global tapioca starch market in 2021, both as an exporter and importer.
Fiji’s Tapioca Starch Exports
In 2021, Fiji exported tapioca starch valued at $68.9k, establishing itself as the 48th largest exporter of tapioca starch globally. Although tapioca starch ranked as the 499th most exported product from Fiji, the export value underscores Fiji’s active involvement in the global market.
The main destinations for Fiji’s tapioca starch exports were the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. The United States was the primary importer, accounting for the majority of the exports with a value of $63.1k. Australia and New Zealand were also significant importers, albeit on a smaller scale.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| North America | United States | 63,097 |
| Oceania | Australia | 3,940 |
| Oceania | New Zealand | 1,844 |
Fiji’s Tapioca Starch Imports
In 2021, Fiji imported tapioca starch valued at $396k, positioning it as the 65th largest importer of tapioca starch globally. Although tapioca starch ranked as the 773rd most imported product in Fiji, the import value highlights the nation’s reliance on international sources to meet domestic demand.
Thailand emerged as the primary source of tapioca starch imports for Fiji, contributing imports valued at $347k. Vietnam, Singapore, Australia, and China were also significant contributors to Fiji’s tapioca starch imports, with respective import values of $30.4k, $17.2k, $735, and $430.
Fiji witnessed considerable growth in its import markets for tapioca starch between 2020 and 2021, primarily driven by increased imports from Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore. Thailand displayed exceptional growth, contributing to imports valued at $154k, while Vietnam and Singapore exhibited import growth of $22.6k and $3.91k, respectively.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Asia | China | 430 |
| Asia | Singapore | 17,236 |
| Asia | Thailand | 346,890 |
| Asia | Vietnam | 30,405 |
| Oceania | Australia | 735 |
| Oceania | New Zealand | 100 |
Tapioca Starch Tariffs in Fiji
In 2018, the average tariff for tapioca starch in Fiji was recorded at 4.87%. Fiji maintained relatively low tariffs on tapioca starch imports, contributing to an open trade environment. The countries with the highest import tariffs for tapioca starch in Fiji were Angola, Burundi, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Botswana, all imposing a Most Favoured Nation duty rate treatment of 5%.
Importing Tapioca Starch from Vietnam
Vietnam has emerged as a prominent supplier of tapioca starch to the Fiji market. In 2021, the total value of tapioca starch imports from Vietnam amounted to an impressive $30,405. This significant figure indicates that Vietnam’s tapioca starch holds a strong position in the market and is poised to maintain its presence in Fiji in the years to come. The reasons behind this sustained importation are primarily attributed to the product’s superior quality and competitive pricing.
Fiji benefits from Vietnam’s tapioca starch exports, which provide a dependable supply of this vital ingredient. The substantial import value from Vietnam underscores Fiji’s confidence in Vietnam as a trusted and preferred partner for fulfilling its tapioca starch requirements. With its consistent quality and competitive pricing, Vietnam’s tapioca starch has proven to be a reliable source that meets Fiji’s demand for this essential product.
Source: BACI and General Statistics Office of Vietnam