The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) is actively seeking opportunities to develop more value-added products, including the manufacturing of ethanol, refined sugar, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and biomass energy and cogeneration. This initiative aims to reduce risks related to market fluctuations and to enhance the corporation’s ability to generate stable, long-term revenue, thereby fostering a resilient and diversified business model that can succeed in a fast-evolving global economy.
Board chairman Nitya Reddy emphasized that the Fiji sugar industry has lost its competitive edge in the global market and is in urgent need of improvements across the entire production and manufacturing process. According to Mr. Reddy’s remarks in the FSC’s 2024 annual report, the industry requires substantial investments in technology, agricultural practices, milling operations, transport infrastructure, and the upskilling of its workforce to address challenges such as declining cane production and a decreasing number of active growers.
Mr. Reddy mentioned that the FSC is reassessing its various options for restructuring mills and supporting infrastructure. He noted that due to the long-term consequences of these decisions and the scale of required investments, a careful evaluation process in collaboration with experts and the government is essential. The board is cautious about pursuing short-term solutions that are driven by populist motivations.