Govt assistance attracts new farmers to sugar industry

A new wave of farmers is entering Fiji’s sugar industry, backed by Government assistance aimed at boosting production and long-term sustainability.

Josefa Turagabeci of Seaqaqa is among 17 farmers who received support under the New Farmer and Lease Premium Assistance Programme, reaffirming efforts to revitalise the sector.

The assistance was handed over by Minister for Sugar, Tomasi Tunabuna, who highlighted Government’s commitment to strengthening the industry.

For Mr Turagabeci, the support marks a turning point.

“For 25 years I was a caretaker of the farm. This year I decided to go into farming, and now I own a farm,” he said.

He said the assistance would help him develop his land and improve productivity.

“I applied for this grant assistance and I received it. I feel really grateful,” he said.

Mr Turagabeci added that the programme had given him confidence to remain in the industry and provide a better future for his family.

He said the sugar industry remained a key economic and social pillar, supporting thousands of families in rural communities.

“Our vision is to have an industry that is productive, profitable, resilient and attractive to future generations of farmers,” he said.

He acknowledged ongoing challenges faced by farmers, including recent fuel supply issues, but assured growers that Government had responded with targeted measures.

These include a guaranteed minimum cane payment of $85 per tonne this season and a $5 million fuel subsidy to ease operational costs for farmers, harvesting gangs and transport operators.

“These measures demonstrate that Government stands firmly behind our farmers,” Mr Tunabuna said.

He urged farmers and stakeholders to begin harvesting and crushing operations promptly to ensure a successful season.

Mr Tunabuna said programmes such as the New Farmer and Lease Premium Assistance Programme were critical in attracting new entrants and ensuring land remained productive.

To date, the initiative has supported more than 600 farmers nationwide, with the latest batch of 17 farmers receiving a total of $91,664.

He congratulated the recipients and encouraged them to use the support to grow their operations and contribute to the future of the sugar industry.