As decision-makers, we need to work together to maintain and improve sugarcane yields despite impacts on our growers.

This was the message delivered by the Prime Minister and Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Sugar Industry, Foreign Affairs and Forestry, Voreqe Bainimarama at the opening of the 60th International Sugar Organisation Council Meeting and Workshop at the Tanoa Waterfront Hotel in Lautoka yesterday.

With the theme ‘Resilience – a way for a sustainable sugar industry’, the two day workshop is attended by Executives from the sugar industry and other organisations. In his opening address, Mr Bainimarama said Fiji consistently called for climate action.

“As leaders who represent cane growers, I demand that you defend their interests by cutting the carbon emissions that we know are responsible for the storms, rising seas, and changing weather patterns that threaten the livelihoods of every farmer on earth, cane growers included,” said Mr Bainimarama.

“Our economy’s reliance on sugar is not what it was 30 or 40 years ago. That is a natural progression as cane growing has given way to other growing sectors of our diversifying economy, but through that transition, our commitment to the farmers behind this industry has never wavered, nor will it ever.”

“In terms of raw support, our commitment to the success of our growers has never been worth more. Because of that support, we remain a proud and productive cane-growing country that is wholly committed to our place in a sustainable world sugar economy.”

He highlighted that improving the resilience of sugarcane production systems to climate change required stronger protection of our natural resources.

“And to ensure long-term financial sustainability, we should also become more ambitious and pursue new uses for sugarcane products such as ethanol, cellulosic biofuel, and other co-products that can open new revenue streams,” he said.

“The next few days of the workshop and council meeting are an opportunity to reflect on lessons learned and share experiences as we look forward to a resilient and sustainable future for this industry that so many of our citizens rely on.”

Mr Bainimarama said more educational programmes should be available to industry players in the member countries.

Executive Director of the International Sugar Organisation, Jose Orive, speaking virtually during the meeting said Fiji had always been active and ready to work with its fellow country members in structuring the best decisions and the best actions as a member of the ISO.

Mr Orive acknowledged the work done by Mr Bainimarama. “You’re an ace and your help has been instrumental for ISO to move forward,” he said.

Also virtually speaking at the meeting was Fiji’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Jitoko Tikolevu. Mr Tikolevu said he was sure that the experts would discuss issues of key importance for the sugar industry to be resilient. The meeting and workshop ends today.

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