The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) has set the forecast cane payment for the 2025 season at $71.41 per tonne, which represents a slight decrease from the $71.77 per tonne predicted for 2024. In line with the Sugar Industry Tribunal Master Award, the government will contribute $13.59 to meet the guaranteed price of $85 per tonne for sugarcane farmers. This means the first payment for the 2025 season, occurring on June 11 at the Lautoka mill and June 17 at the Labasa mill, will be $42.85 per tonne of cane. Growers in these regions are advised to commence their harvesting a day prior to the crushing season.
This announcement coincides with ongoing efforts to support the sugarcane farming sector, despite challenges such as adverse weather conditions that have historically impacted production. Just recently, sugarcane farmers in Fiji welcomed a final payment of $4 per tonne for the 2023 season, boosting the total cane price to a record $105.08 per tonne. Vimal Dutt, CEO of the Sugar Cane Growers Council, emphasized the importance of governmental support and the resilience shown by farmers amid difficulties like reduced rainfall.
These developments indicate a commitment to providing financial relief and enhancing the sustainability of Fiji’s agricultural sector. Despite ongoing challenges, there’s a hopeful outlook as support continues to flow, underscoring the strength and adaptability of the sugarcane farming community in Fiji.
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