The Fijian government, led by Minister for Sugar Industry Charan Jeath Singh, is taking decisive steps to revitalize the country’s sugar industry by boosting sugarcane production in Sigatoka. Acknowledging sugar as Fiji’s second-largest source of foreign income, Singh emphasized the need to enhance production and improve the industry’s overall health.
During the Burnt Cane Rehabilitation Grant handover event, Minister Singh urged farmers to increase their supply of green cane to the mills to maintain high-quality sugar production, which would fetch better prices internationally. The government’s current focus is on ramping up cane production in Sigatoka and Rakiraki.
One significant challenge is the transportation of cane, as Sigatoka is considerably distant from the Lautoka sugar mill. To address this issue, the government is considering establishing a facility in Sigatoka for local extraction of sugarcane juice, which would then be processed into sugar at the factory.
The efforts to boost sugarcane production in Sigatoka align with broader initiatives to support the sugar industry across Fiji. Singh has previously highlighted a range of governmental support programs aimed at rejuvenating the industry despite existing challenges, such as declining production figures and diversification into other crops by some farmers.
The new strategies, alongside ongoing government investments and supportive initiatives, are designed to reverse the industry’s recent decline. The government has committed significant resources to modernize sugar mills and improve farming practices. Additional support includes targeted grants and subsidies, aiming not only to stabilize the industry but also to encourage greater participation of both new and experienced farmers.
Overall, the Fijian government is optimistic about reversing the downward trend through concerted efforts and community collaboration, which could rejuvenate the sugar industry, benefiting both the national economy and local communities reliant on sugarcane farming. With a focus on strategic investments, efficient farming, and innovation, there’s potential for the Fijian sugar industry to regain its pivotal role in the country’s economy.
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