Too Many Vultures' Feed on Sugar Industry: Chaudhry
Mr Chaudhry pointed to a series of internal and external failures at the root of the crisis.
Wednesday 25 June 2025 | 14:15
Updated 08 August 2025 | 15:33 FJT
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has issued a sharp critique of the state of the sugar industry.
He warned that the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) is being crippled by deep-rooted problems ranging from mismanagement and political interference to corruption and decaying infrastructure.
Responding to questions from the Fiji Sun following concerns over FSC's land deal debt swap-involving land where the Lautoka Bowling Club is located-Mr Chaudhry did not mince words.
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"FSC has been financially insolvent for many years, relying heavily on government support for its ongoing operations," said Mr Chaudhry, who is also a former Finance Minister.
The deal has prompted public scrutiny amid ongoing complaints from farmers and cane lorry drivers about recurring mill breakdowns and poor infrastructure, raising fears about the long-term sustainability of the industry.
Mr Chaudhry pointed to a series of internal and external failures at the root of the crisis.
"Lack of accountability and transparency, corruption, political interference in appointments to the FSC Board, aging mills and transport infrastructure are internal factors affecting its operations," he said.
"Continuing problems with land lease renewals, high rentals and premiums arbitrarily assessed by TLTB outside the limits set under the Agricultural Landlords and Tenants Act, are the external factors."
On the controversial land deal, Mr Chaudhry questioned whether it truly serves the interests of the sugar sector and its stakeholders.
While the FSC can be brought back to profitability, it will require a fundamental shift in political will.
"The industry can be revived, FSC can be brought back to profitability, confidence can be instilled back in its future. But, that can only happen with a Government that has the political will and the courage to do what is needed," he said.
"Presently, there are too many vultures in the industry. They have to be dealt with first to breathe life back into it."
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