Farmers urged to diversify as costs continue to rise

While Government has guaranteed sugarcane farmers a minimum payment of $85 per tonne for the 2026 crop season, it is also urging growers to diversify their farming activities to cushion the impact of rising production costs and external economic shocks.

Government acknowledged that increasing fuel prices, fertilizer costs and harvesting expenses continue to place significant pressure on farmers and the wider sugar industry.

Officials noted that despite substantial support provided to the sector over the years, sugarcane production has continued to decline. Assistance provided to farmers includes cane planting grants, fertilizer and weedicide subsidies, manual harvesting payments, farmer incentives, cane access road upgrades, lease renewals and Government top-up payments.

More than $36 million was paid by Government as a top-up for the 2025 crop season alone.

Government said factors such as global fuel and fertilizer price increases remain beyond local control, making it important for farmers to explore additional income sources.

Farmers have been encouraged to integrate other crops and livestock into their farming operations to improve household earnings, strengthen food security and reduce dependence on sugarcane alone.

The call for diversification comes as stakeholders prepare for the start of the 2026 cane crushing season on June 9, with Government also urging sugar mills, cane cutters, lorry operators, landowners and farmers to work together to support the industry's recovery and long-term sustainability.