The Minister for Sugar Industry, Charan Jeath Singh, has reiterated his earlier stance to sugarcane farmers producing less than 50 tonnes of sugarcane, urging them to vacate their lands. Speaking in parliament, Singh emphasized that the government’s current strategy is to support farmers who demonstrate stronger performance and higher yields, rather than those who are underperforming.
His comments have been made in light of increasing accountability and integrity within the industry, particularly highlighting a recent incident where four farmers claimed they were denied access to land for sugarcane cultivation. Singh cautioned against politicizing the issue, stating, “Do not try to politicise things with the sugarcane farmers… every time politics, politics, where did the industry end up?” He assured that upcoming elections for the Sugar Cane Growers’ Council would reflect the importance of transparency and credibility in the sector.
This emphasis on accountability aligns with Singh’s previous efforts to address broader challenges facing Fiji’s sugar industry, which has seen yields drop from an average of 100 tons per hectare to about 47 tons. The minister has criticized the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) for inadequate support and called for improved agricultural practices and a focus on mechanization.
Singh’s position encapsulates a hopeful perspective that by encouraging farmers to take their responsibilities seriously, the industry may find a pathway to recovery and revitalization. With renewed commitment and a deeper focus on integrity, there is optimism that Fiji’s sugarcane sector can regain its footing and contribute to the nation’s agricultural landscape positively.
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