NFU rejects proposal to close western sugar mills

The National Farmers Union (NFU) has challenged proposals to close sugar mills in the Western Division and shift sugar production to Vanua Levu, warning growers are increasingly uncertain about the Government's long-term plans for the industry.

NFU president Surendra Lal criticised the proposal put forward by People's Alliance Party president Ratu Josefa Dimuri, who has suggested selling the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) to a private company, closing mills in Viti Levu and concentrating sugar production in the North.

Mr Lal described the proposal as a "hilarious gesture", saying it was ironic given Ratu Josefa's previous position on sugarcane lease renewals after the 2000 political upheaval.

"He was advocating the non-renewal of cane leases, and now he is advocating for the future of the sugar industry," Mr Lal said.

Mr Lal also questioned Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka's recent description of the sugar industry as a "cow that is not giving any milk".

"Sir, this is frivolous and it does not argue well with your status," Mr Lal said.

Growers seek clarity

Mr Lal said farmers were equally concerned by the Prime Minister's silence following the proposals for the industry's future.

"Unfortunately, growers are skeptical on your silence as you have not made any statement to confirm nor deny these proposals," he said.

He said uncertainty was affecting growers' confidence in the Government's commitment to the sugar industry.

"Every grower is questioning your sincerity on the way forward for the industry," he said.

Proposal to reshape industry

Mr Lal's comments follow Ratu Josefa's call for Government to consider selling the FSC to a private company, arguing Fiji could no longer delay difficult decisions about the industry's future.

The proposal came after Prime Minister Rabuka questioned Fiji's continued reliance on sugar.

"So many people rely on that cow that is not giving Fiji any milk," Mr Rabuka said.

Ratu Josefa said the Prime Minister had made his position clear, although it may have offended some people.

He argued the industry was no longer delivering the expected returns and that Government should begin planning for alternatives.

"We cannot afford to wait too long. We must start planning now and identify the most appropriate substitute to replace sugar," he said.

Among his proposals are closing sugar mills in Viti Levu, concentrating production in Vanua Levu, amalgamating smaller cane farms into larger operations, helping farmers transition into value-added industries, encouraging high-value export crops in western Fiji, and selling the FSC to a private company.