More than 150 rice farmers in Fiji are set to receive support from a $150,000 government grant designated for rice planting in the current financial year.
According to Fiji Rice Limited (FRL), the government-subsidized rice planting initiative aims to alleviate planting expenses for farmers and enhance overall production. Chairman Raj Sharma stated that this funding is projected to boost national rice production by 400 tonnes.
With the current cost of rice cultivation at $1,000 per acre, Sharma anticipates that farmers will generate nearly $400,000 from this program. He mentioned plans to revamp their business model, noting that the government will introduce various incentives, including subsidies for fertilizers and herbicides that were previously limited or unavailable.
Last year, the per-acre price also increased from $850 to $1,000. The statement highlighted that commercial farmers, defined as those managing land exceeding 20 acres, would be eligible for a maximum grant covering seven acres, which totals $2,100. These farmers are required to cover 50 percent of the overall costs.