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Bill

SR 48

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 requests economic study of state's food manufacturing potential to reduce import dependency and identify growth opportunities in agriculture-based industries.

Offered.
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Bill Summary · SR 48

Legislative bill overview

SR 48 requests Hawaii's Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to conduct a comprehensive study examining the state's food manufacturing capabilities, competitive advantages, and opportunities in strategic markets. The study would assess Hawaii's existing food production infrastructure, identify growth sectors, and recommend pathways for expanding the food manufacturing industry.

Why is this important

Hawaii imports approximately 85-90% of its food, making the state vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and dependent on external costs. Developing local food manufacturing could strengthen food security, create jobs, reduce import dependency, and generate economic diversification beyond tourism. Understanding Hawaii's specific strengths in food manufacturing—such as unique agricultural products, coffee, honey, or specialty foods—could inform future economic development policy.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and priority: Funding a study during budget constraints may face opposition; critics may question whether resources should go directly to food manufacturing support rather than analysis
  • Implementation uncertainty: The resolution requests a study but provides no timeline, budget allocation, or guarantee that findings will lead to policy action or funding
  • Market viability concerns: Some stakeholders may argue Hawaii's high labor and transportation costs make food manufacturing uncompetitive compared to mainland and international producers, limiting practical benefit

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

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