Some farmers are allegedly misusing grants meant for revitalizing the rice industry by not planting rice as required, according to Raj Sharma, chairman of Fiji Rice Private Ltd. He noted that some grant recipients have also failed to supply rice to the company.
Sharma urged those who have received grants to provide rice to Fiji Rice, emphasizing that the initiative aims to boost the rice sector. He pointed out that some farmers are not adhering to their planting commitments.
President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere mentioned that the government has allocated over $150,000 in grants to rice farmers to support the revitalization of the rice industry. He stated that farmers who receive the grants are expected to deliver 80 percent of their production to Fiji Rice Ltd., with the company anticipating around 480 tonnes of paddy from this initiative.
Ratu Wiliame emphasized that by effectively utilizing these grants and subsidies, Fiji Rice Ltd can strengthen the rice sector, ensuring the production of high-quality rice that meets national demand.