The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has responded to accusations from the National Farmers Union, asserting that both the TLTB and landowners are often unfairly blamed when farmers abandon sugarcane farms. TLTB management emphasized that multiple factors contribute to the challenges faced by farmers, rather than just the rents and premiums associated with agricultural leases.
TLTB reported that there are 16,001 agricultural leases in place, covering 174,046 hectares of iTaukei land, which collectively generate over $10.7 million in rent. However, outstanding rent arrears amount to approximately $5.8 million for these leases. Breaking this down further, among the 8,783 cane leases on 75,737 hectares, the arrears total around $2.8 million.
The statement indicated that lease renewals depend on various criteria, such as unpaid rent, the lack of cultivation on leasehold land, and the transition of land to higher-value purposes, including commercial, residential, or tourism ventures. Remarkably, TLTB has renewed 85 percent of agricultural leases since 1997. The remaining 15 percent have been either repurposed for more profitable uses, leased out to landowners, reverted to landowners, or given to others due to negligence in cultivation and outstanding rent.
The TLTB also expressed concerns about the inadequate rent returns under the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Act (ALTA), stressing the need for government reviews to ensure equitable compensation for landowners. They advocated for a rental system based on open market principles, which could be facilitated by amending the overpowering influence of the Agricultural Tribunal over TLTB.
In summary, TLTB’s statement aims to clarify misconceptions surrounding the departure of farmers from sugarcane farming and highlight the importance of considering a variety of socio-economic factors at play.
This situation showcases the complexities in agricultural lease management and rent systems, suggesting a hopeful path forward where both land owners and farmers can negotiate terms that benefit the agricultural sector and enhance returns for landowners. By fostering open dialogue and seeking to address grievances through review and reform, there is potential for sustainable farming practices to take root, benefiting the community as a whole.
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