Rice farmers in Dreketi in Vanua Levu have been urged to work closely amongst themselves as well as with the Ministry of Agriculture for the development of the rice industry.

Assistant Minister for Agriculture Viam Pillay has stressed this to farmers during the Annual General Meeting of the Vanua Levu Rice Farmers Cooperative in Dreketi where he also reminded farmers of their role in assisting to reduce the importing of rice into the country.

He adds that Fiji Rice Limited has recorded a gradual increase in rice production over the years, which clearly indicates Governments investment and assistance in the industry is being utilized well by the farmers.

Some farmers also raised their concerns on the shortage of appropriate machines available for farmers at the Dreketi Agriculture Station with the Assistant Minister and he assured that there were plans to bring in more machines which will include rice harvesters, power tillers and "L" shaped rotavators.

A 10 member working group was also formed to allow for better coordination between farmers and the Ministry of Agriculture during the AGM.