Farmers warn sugar industry under pressure as PM promises reform

Sugarcane farmers in Seaqaqa have called for higher cane prices, warning that rising production costs and falling returns are threatening the future of the industry.

Their concerns were raised during consultations with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who acknowledged the need to overhaul Fiji's sugar industry to keep it competitive in an increasingly challenging global market.

"We must relook at our systems and methods to keep abreast with the global market," Mr Rabuka said.

He said global competition, changing markets and external factors, including the conflict in the Middle East, had affected Fiji's economy and its key industries.

Mr Rabuka said the Government was considering possible financial support for farmers but was awaiting updated financial assessments before making an announcement.

"We know farmers are waiting. We are working with the Ministry of Finance and millers on what is possible," he said.

However, farmers said immediate relief was needed.

Seaqaqa farmer Aktar Hussain, who produces more than 1,000 tonnes of sugarcane, said many growers were struggling to remain viable.

He questioned the sustainability of the industry, citing a forecast cane price of $15.70 per tonne, rising labour and transportation costs, and increasing debt.

"If there were no farmers, the industry would have collapsed long ago," he said.

Mr Hussain said deductions by the Fiji Sugar Corporation, the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) and banks often left farmers with little or no income.

He also raised concerns about limited markets for alternative crops despite repeated calls for farmers to diversify.

"Cost of living is high, but our income does not match. If prices do not improve, the industry will collapse," he said.

Mr Rabuka thanked farmers for their resilience and contribution to the industry and reaffirmed the Government's commitment to ensuring its long-term sustainability.