Cane growers around the country have been urged to plan their expenses properly and spend wisely.

This request from the Acting chief executive officer of the Sugar Cane Growers Council Sunil Deo Chaudhary followed the announcement of the third cane payment by the Sugar Industry Tribunal to farmers of $11 per tonne.

“Firstly, I would like to thank the Government for the COVID-19 response budget that will provide much needed relief to the greater Fijian community,” Mr Chaudhary said.

“Also we appreciate the Government’s commitment to the sugar industry in providing unwavering support and the continuation of the guaranteed cane price of $85 per tonne.

“This third cane payment of $11 will provide great assistance to cane growers and their families during this time of the year when they do not have any other source of income.

“Moreover, with COVID-19 pandemic in Fiji, growers desperately needed the financial support to buy the essential supplies for their families and this timely payment has brought hope and confidence to thegrowers.”

He urged the growers to plan for their expenses, spend wisely, avoid panic shopping and not to overstock perishable items.

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