The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has issued a statement addressing the concerns raised by the National Farmers Union’s General Secretary Mahendra Chaudhry regarding the departure of farmers from sugarcane farming. TLTB management asserts that both the Board and the landowners are often unjustly held responsible for farmers abandoning their leases.
The TLTB highlighted that multiple factors contribute to the migration of farmers away from sugarcane cultivation, rather than solely the rents and premiums levied for agricultural leases. According to the Board, there are currently 16,001 agricultural leases covering a total of 174,046 hectares of iTaukei land, which collectively generate approximately $10,757,328.25 in rental income. However, they also revealed that there are significant rent arrears totaling $5,834,636.59 owed by tenants.
Furthermore, within the 8,783 cane leases encompassing 75,737 hectares of land, outstanding rent arrears amount to $2,793,097.91. The TLTB noted that lease renewals depend on various considerations, including the non-payment of rent, lack of cultivated land, and the potential for land to be used for more lucrative purposes such as commercial, residential, or tourism developments.
The statement emphasized that the TLTB has successfully renewed 85% of agricultural leases since 1997, with the remaining 15% either reallocated for higher return uses or returned to landowners who wish to cultivate the land themselves. They also underscored the burdens faced by iTaukei landowners due to what they describe as inequitable rent returns under current leasing agreements. The TLTB advocates for a reassessment of rental agreements to ensure fairness in line with market standards, including the removal of certain overriding powers held by the Agricultural Tribunal.
This situation highlights the complexities surrounding agricultural leasing and farming practices in Fiji, suggesting that a collaborative approach between farmers, landowners, and the TLTB could lead to better outcomes for all parties involved. Rather than viewing landowners and the TLTB as scapegoats, it’s important for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at revitalizing the sugarcane industry and supporting sustainable agricultural practices that benefit the whole community.
In summary, while challenges persist in the agricultural leasing system, there’s potential for reform and improvement that can lead to more equitable solutions for farmers and landowners alike.
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