The Fiji Sugar Corporation Ltd (FSC) has responded to accusations from the National Farmers Union (NFU), asserting that no sugar was lost during recent operation disruptions at the Lautoka Mill. Chief Executive Officer Bhan Singh clarified that all harvesting teams were adequately informed ahead of the controlled shutdown, which began following a routine inspection revealing a leak in one of the mill’s boiler tubes on June 19, 2025.
Singh explained that the shutdown, initially set for a hydrostatic pressure test, extended after additional failures were identified. This extension was crucial to ensure the boiler system’s safety and integrity, preventing further unplanned failures.
Regular updates were communicated to the Cane Lorry Association, allowing growers and transport operators to adapt their logistics. The first 10 days of the milling season are typically employed to identify and rectify dormant mechanical issues, and Singh mentioned that repairs were expected to conclude shortly after midnight on June 22, 2025, with milling operations set to resume immediately afterward.
This incident aligns with previous challenges faced by the Lautoka Mill, where breakdowns have led to concerns among farmers regarding the impact of operational interruptions. Despite these challenges, the prompt response from the engineering teams and the ongoing investments of over $18 million over the past two years to improve machinery reflect the FSC’s commitment to enhancing performance and maintaining productivity within Fiji’s sugar industry.
As the sugar industry continues to navigate these operational hurdles, there is a hopeful outlook for improved stability and productivity. The collaboration between the FSC and its stakeholders is vital in fostering resilience, allowing for better returns for farmers and a more efficient sugar supply chain in the future.
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