Former Fiji Sugar Corporation board member Arvind Singh has expressed deep concern over the future of Fiji’s sugar industry, criticizing recent government decisions to build two new sugar mills without engaging farmers in the consultation process. Singh highlighted that the industry is facing a critical decline, with many farmers abandoning their land, particularly in the regions between Rakiraki and Ba. He fears that soon, there may be fewer than 8,000 farmers on Viti Levu, underscoring the urgency for the government to address the ongoing issues plaguing the sector.
Singh pointed out that the sugar industry is “dying,” attributing this to the lack of viable solutions to critical challenges, such as unresolved land lease issues and a problematic cane payment system. Farmers are experiencing prolonged delays in receiving payments, often having to wait until the following year to see returns on their current harvests. He stressed that the growing frustrations among farmers are further compounded by labor shortages, with individuals unwilling to work for low wages, thus necessitating higher compensation just to attract workers during harvest time.
The situation has exacerbated with the temporary closure of the Rarawai mill in Ba, leaving many laborers and drivers idling while waiting to harvest their crops. Singh lamented, “At the end of the day, while they [officials] continue to receive their salaries, farmers only earn income based on what they manage to harvest.”
Singh has called on Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who recently took charge of a Parliamentary Select Committee on the Sugar Industry, to engage directly with farmers to understand their struggles. He emphasized the need for the government to refrain from political maneuvering within the industry, arguing that such distractions are detrimental at a time when farmers are unable to get their crops to fruition.
Adding to his advocacy, Singh warned against letting politics overly influence the industry, suggesting that a collaborative approach focused on farmers’ voices is crucial for the industry’s revival. With the legacy of sugar growing at risk, he articulated hopes for a dedicated effort from the government to listen to farmers’ grievances, aiming for a united front that could lead to sustainable solutions.
Past discussions around the sugar industry echo Singh’s concerns, with various stakeholders pushing for reforms to improve accountability, labor practices, and productivity levels. As Fiji faces challenges such as declining yields and a shrinking farmer base, a concerted effort could pave the way for revitalization through innovation and collaboration among all parties involved. The outlook for the sugar industry can be brightened if the government prioritizes farmer engagement and systemic reforms that reflect the community’s needs and aspirations.
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