As the big 2016 National Budget announcement day draws closer, the Fiji Sugar Corporation feels that as an industry, they need to stay focussed.

FSC executive chairman, Abdul Khan, said the industry needs to continue to make the improvements which were started back in 2011.

“The support from government has been unwavering and we need to ensure that this support is converted into real gains for the industry,” he said.

“For FSC, we are likely to see changes ranging from ownership through refinements in the various processes where we interact with other industrial bodies.

“These refinements are necessary to further reduce unwanted expenses especially to farmers.”

Mr Khan said FSC’s submission for the budget has basically been one of support in the form of confidence in FSC and the industry.

“I feel that since we are a commercial company, Government monetary support should only be at time when there are abnormal circumstances,” he said.

Area to prioritise

Mr Khan feels that Government needs to continue its work in reducing the cost of doing business in Fiji.

“They have come a long way towards taking out unnecessary processes and I think with the introduction of improved IT system, they will be able to reduce this cost further,” he said.

“I feel Government should continue with capital development especially in infrastructure.

“They are continuing this work and I’m sure economic growth will come on the back of such developments.”

Past budget and consultation

Meanwhile, Mr Khan recognised the lead role taken by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama for the benefit of our sugar industry.

“His ability to allow quick decision making has definitely assisted us through improvements in roads for cane cartage, renewal of leases for existing and new farmers,” he said.

“He has also supported us through the capital growth programme that we have in place.”

In terms of the budget consultations held this year, Mr Khan said this was a good way of getting the input from the “common person”.

“Normally we have tended to concentrate with inputs from organisations and that may not have correctly reflected the views of all citizens,” he said.

“At least this way, all possible views were taken into consideration.”

Feedback:  rachnal@fijisun.com.fj