Sugar mills in Fiji are currently facing a serious challenge as over 60% of the cane received daily is reported to be burnt. This growing trend is raising concerns about the quality, reputation, and marketability of Fiji’s sugar, with the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Sugar, Dr. Vinesh Kumar, issuing a warning about the repercussions for the industry. He highlights that the increase in burnt cane deliveries not only burdens the mills but also jeopardizes Fiji’s ability to meet international market standards.
Dr. Kumar emphasized that the penalties for burnt cane will remain in effect, as relaxing these measures could result in an even higher prevalence of burning, further threatening Fiji’s sugar exports. Despite a lack of evidence that farmers are intentionally burning their crops, he noted that buyers are increasingly rejecting local sugar due to its diminishing quality. The additional energy costs and longer processing times associated with burnt cane complicate efforts to produce acceptable sugar.
This issue has been exacerbated over time; reports indicate that between 60% to 80% of current cane deliveries comprise burnt cane, leading to a marked decrease in sugar quality. Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh is working collaboratively with government efforts to mitigate the crisis by reintroducing extension officers to offer guidance and support to farmers. Dr. Kumar suggests that while most farmers are not intentionally destroying their own crops, other factors, such as labourers potentially igniting fires for job security, may also be at play.
Earlier discussions in the sector have revealed that the issue of pre-season burning poses a significant threat beyond just crop quality—it also endangers farmer incomes and the overall sustainability of the sugar industry. The government has implemented various support measures, including rehabilitation grants for farmers affected by these fires, to help stabilize the situation.
Hope remains as the government and industry stakeholders align their strategies to combat the ongoing challenges posed by burnt cane. Enhanced monitoring and community engagement initiatives, including proposed technology-driven surveillance, aim to deter acts of arson and mitigate risks to the industry. With these measures in place, there is optimism that Fiji’s sugar industry can rebound and reclaim its position in the global market.
The efforts to combat the rising trend of burnt cane reflect a broader commitment to support local farmers, improve crop quality, and ensure the long-term viability of Fiji’s vital sugar sector.
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