After more than twenty years in regulatory exile, Kava, an iconic beverage from the Pacific Islands, may soon return to European shelves, as regional efforts to lift the European Union’s ban gain momentum.
Kava was banned across Europe in the early 2000s following reports of liver-related illnesses and fatalities allegedly linked to its consumption.
The ban significantly impacted Kava producers and exporters throughout the Pacific region.
Speaking at a Kava Side Event during last week’s Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) meeting, Kaivao Solutions Senior Consultant Feiloakitau Tevi expressed cautious optimism.
He noted that the Pacific Forum Trade Working Group has recently begun efforts to reverse the longstanding restriction.
“The working group on market access is doing all this work to try and get back into the EU market,” Tevi said.
“Right now, the application is with the Pacific Forum Trade Working Group, and it’s actively being worked on. Hopefully, we’ll see progress within the next 12 to 18 months.”
The initial application was submitted by Vanuatu, led by Dr. Vincent Lebot.
However, it failed to convince the EU’s Directorate-General for Trade and related authorities.
Now, the Pacific Islands Forum has agreed to take up the cause once again.
“There are certain matters the Pacific Islands Forum needs to address to meet the EU’s requirements for approval.
“But it seems the EU is now listening to this particular working group,” Tevi said.
By AGNES MENANOPOSolomon Star, Honiara