The Rarawai Mill was expected to crush around 750,000 tonnes of sugar cane this year, including the supplies coming from Rakiraki.

This was expected to produce around 87,000 tonnes of sugar, with a projected 8.6 TCTS (tonne of cane per tonne of sugar).

Fiji Sugar Corporation Chief Executive Graham Clark in announcing this before the beginning of crush at Rarawai Mill in Ba yesterday called upon all stakeholders to assist each other and work together.

“I believe the quality of sugar is good enough to sell.”

Mr Clark said the Rarawai Mill was a very important part of the overall sugar industry.

“We will make sure the mill continues to run as efficiently as possible,” Mr Clark told farmers, lorry drivers, mill employees and guests.

Mr Clark said the crushing season for Rarawai Mill was expected to extend into December but added he did not want to reach the latter part of that month as this was when the wet season was likely to set in.

“We want to crush all 750,000 tonnes as soon as possible.”

Mr Clark said he knew the employees were looking forward to the opening of crush and acknowledged their efforts in getting the mill into shape.

“The opening of the Rarawai Mill is very important because it will become the permanent receiver of cane from the Rakiraki area.”

“We welcome all those lorry drivers who will be bringing the cane from Rakiraki.”

“The Prime Minister has assured all growers of Rakiraki during the Talanoa Sessions that no grower will be worse off as far as transportation of sugar cane is concerned.”

“We are here to assist, help and grow the sugar cane industry in Fiji.”

“We request all farmers in Ba to welcome the Rakiraki growers here in Rarawai.”

“To the lorry drivers, I know there will be a lot more pressure on the delivery of cane and I ask all to help each other.”

Edited by: Selita Bolanavanua

Feedback: charles.chambers@fijisun.com.fj