The Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Charan Jeath Singh, has announced temporary relief measures to assist sugarcane farmers who were adversely impacted by the recent fire at the Rarawai Mill in Ba. Speaking at the introduction of a Loyalty Agreement Signup between the Sugar Cane Growers Fund (SCGF) and Pacific Energy in Ba, Minister Singh commended the SCGF for its prompt response and support for the affected growers.
In response to the disruptions caused by the fire, the SCGF has decided to waive all loan application and documentation fees for Western Division cane growers applying for loans related to harvesting expenses until the end of the current sugar-crushing season. This initiative was praised by the minister as timely support necessary for the farmers, who are tasked with continuing their harvesting operations amidst the challenges posed by the fire.
The fire at the Rarawai Mill has not only threatened immediate operations but has also placed a significant financial burden on the farmers due to increased logistical and transportation costs. In a related announcement, the government had previously committed to providing compensation of $15 per tonne for cane redirected to the Lautoka Sugar Mill as a means to offset these additional costs. This ensures that the affected cane will be processed, reinforcing the government’s commitment to maintain production and protect livelihoods during this difficult time.
Furthering these efforts, Minister Singh reiterated the government’s pledge to support the sugar industry through various measures aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability. The government, alongside industry stakeholders like the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), is working to enhance resilience within the sugar sector, which remains vital to Fiji’s economic stability.
Reflecting on past efforts, the sugar industry in Fiji has faced multiple challenges, including pre-season cane fires and operational disruptions. In response, the government has rolled out multiple support initiatives, such as targeted financial aid and mechanization grants, to boost productivity and support affected farmers.
These coordinated relief measures demonstrate a proactive approach to safeguarding the sugar industry, ensuring that it can withstand environmental and economic challenges while continuing to be a pillar of Fiji’s economy. The optimism among stakeholders is evident, as they anticipate that these interventions will not only mitigate the immediate aftermath of the Rarawai Mill fire but also secure the sugar industry’s future resilience and prosperity.
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