Chinese Agricultural Aid Transforms Samoa's Watermelon Production and Economy

Chinese Agricultural Aid Transforms Samoa’s Watermelon Production and Economy

For years, watermelons were a rare luxury in Samoa, often imported at high prices and unaffordable for many locals. However, a recent transformation has taken place in the Pacific island country, thanks to agricultural assistance from China.

With professional guidance from Chinese experts, Samoan families have learned to cultivate their own watermelons. The success of these efforts means that the island nation no longer relies on imports for this popular fruit. The impact has been significant: the price of watermelons has dropped from 20 Samoan tala ($7.45) per kilogram in 2017 to just seven tala ($2.60) today.

This agricultural partnership began over a decade ago when Samoa, the second Pacific Island Country to establish diplomatic relations with China, recognized the potential for development in its largely uncultivated lands—80 percent of which remain unused. The China-Samoa Demonstration Farm emerged as the largest base among all China-assisted programs in the region, showcasing advanced cultivation techniques and greenhouse technology.

Samoan farmers like John Maposua have directly benefited from this collaboration. Maposua, residing in a mountain village, has earned over 100,000 tala (approximately $37,270) through greenhouse farming. “Agriculture is the backbone of our country,” remarked Leaupepe Taimaaiono Toleafoa Faafisi, Samoa’s Parliament Speaker. “As a country leader, a farmer, and also a businessman, I am very grateful to China’s support to us such as the agriculture cooperation project.”

Agriculture serves as the pillar industry in Samoa, engaging over 80 percent of families. China’s assistance has not only decreased the cost of produce but also boosted incomes, making it pivotal for the island country’s development. The successful cultivation of watermelons symbolizes a broader potential for Samoa to achieve greater self-sufficiency and economic growth through continued collaboration.

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