Sugar quality drops as 90% of cane sent to mills burnt

The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) has raised alarm over the quality of sugar being produced this season, saying more than 90 per cent of cane arriving at its mills is burnt — a trend now affecting sugar grade and tonnes-cane-to-tonne-sugar (TCTS) ratios.

FSC chairman Nitya Reddy said farmers should avoid panic harvesting and burning, warning that the continued supply of burnt cane is “seriously compromising” sugar quality for global markets.

His comments come as crushing resumed at the Rarawai Mill in Ba last Friday, following what he described as the largest restoration project undertaken in the 140-year history of the industry.

The mill was restored in 78 days, including 10 days lost because of limited access to the fire-damaged site and delays in obtaining critical electrical and instrumentation components.

Mr Reddy said FSC’s local engineering teams, supported by external suppliers, completed the work under challenging procurement and financing conditions.

He said some teething issues may still occur as new mechanical systems settle, but thanked employees, contractors, farmers, harvesting gangs and transport operators for their patience during the shutdown.

Around 140,000 tonnes of cane remain to be harvested in Viti Levu. FSC says it will continue crushing for as long as it is economically viable and has urged all stakeholders to coordinate operations to ensure an orderly end to the season.