This paper discusses the present state of the small ruminant industries in Fiji and acknowledges
that these industries will remain an important source of meat for the nation. This is ensured by the
multicultural nature of the society and strong demand for goat and sheep meats. The Fiji government
continues to support the industries through the provision of research and extension services.
However, the level of support is not likely to increase in the foreseeable future. Gastrointestinal
parasites are the major cause of production loss in small ruminants in Fiji. Current parasite control
methods rely heavily upon thc use of anthelmintics. Given the occurrence of anthelmintic resistance
there is a need for the development of sustainable parasite control measures. Optimising
anthelmintic use, rotational grazing, improved nutrition, selection of resistant hosts, biological control,
and anti-parasitic vaccines are identified as priority areas for research into the development of
a sustainable parasite control program. The need for an integrated approach employing a number
of control options is acknowledged, as is the need for external assistance in the development of the
research program.