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SCR 49

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM TO CONDUCT A STUDY ON HAWAII'S FOOD MANUFACTURING STRENGTHS AND STRATEGIC MARKETS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Carol Fukunaga and 4 co-sponsors

Hawaii's legislature requests an economic study of the state's food manufacturing sector to identify competitive strengths and market opportunities for industry growth.

Offered.
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Bill Summary · SCR 49

Legislative bill overview

SCR 49 requests that Hawaii's Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) conduct a comprehensive study examining the state's food manufacturing capabilities, competitive advantages, and potential strategic markets for growth. The study would assess current strengths in food production and identify opportunities for expanding Hawaii's food manufacturing sector domestically and internationally.

Why is this important

Hawaii's food manufacturing sector represents a potential economic diversification opportunity, particularly as the state seeks to reduce dependency on tourism and imported goods. A strategic assessment could identify high-value niche markets (such as specialty foods, organic products, or value-added goods) where Hawaii has natural advantages, potentially creating jobs and increasing local food security while supporting agricultural communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and resource allocation: The study requires government resources at a time when budget priorities may be competing; unclear if findings will lead to actual funding or implementation
  • Implementation uncertainty: As a study request, there's no guarantee the findings will result in concrete policy changes, business support, or investment—it may become a report that sits unused
  • Market viability questions: Hawaii's high labor and transportation costs make food manufacturing expensive compared to mainland competitors; the study may reveal limited commercial viability in most sectors

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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