The Fiji Times for December 10 features several key stories that reflect significant developments in the country. Attorney General Graham Leung stated that amending the 2013 Constitution is exceedingly difficult, likening it to fitting a camel through the eye of a needle. Despite the challenges in the review process, it remains a top priority for the Coalition government.
Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad expressed confidence in the Coalition Government model, which encourages collaboration among political parties. He believes this approach will resonate with voters and potentially lead to increased support in future elections.
Outgoing ANZ Group CEO Shayne Elliott emphasized the importance of introducing a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) in Fiji. During a seminar organized by the Reserve Bank of Fiji, he warned that without a CBDC, governments risk losing control over their financial systems to cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin.
In another significant update, Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh reported a concerning decline in sugar production for the 2024 season, with a drop of 1.33 million tonnes from the previous year. He attributed this decline to ongoing industry challenges and climate change impacts. The Sugar Industry Tribunal has halted the crushing process at Fiji’s three mills due to reduced operational throughput.
Despite this setback, Mr. Singh assured that the government is committed to supporting farmers and has introduced numerous initiatives aimed at reviving production for 2025. With 18 different programs available for farmers, there are encouraging efforts underway to boost future production.
Going forward, it’s crucial that the government and industry stakeholders develop a comprehensive strategy to resolve these ongoing challenges, ensuring the long-term viability of the sugar industry and supporting the farmers who rely on it for their livelihoods. As concerns around sugar production mount, a collaborative approach may be the key to encouraging local farming and revitalizing this essential sector.
In summary, while Fiji faces significant challenges in both constitutional amendments and the sugar industry, there are ongoing efforts and initiatives aimed at fostering support and improvement for the future. It is an opportunity for unity, innovation, and long-term strategy. The hope lies in the potential of these initiatives to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected.
Leave a comment