Over 150 rice farmers in Fiji are set to benefit from a $150,000 government grant designated for Fiji Rice Limited (FRL) for rice cultivation in the current financial year. The government-backed rice planting initiative aims to support farmers by subsidizing planting expenses and enhancing overall production.
Raj Sharma, the Chairman of Fiji Rice, mentioned that the funding is projected to boost national rice production by an additional 400 tonnes. He noted that with the current rate of $1,000 per acre, farmers could generate nearly $400,000 from this initiative.
Sharma also mentioned plans to restructure the business and highlighted various incentives being offered by the government. Starting next week, subsidies for fertilizers and herbicides will be available to farmers, which were previously limited or nonexistent. He pointed out that the price per acre had increased from $850 to $1,000 last year.
According to the statement from Fiji Rice, commercial farmers will be eligible for a maximum grant covering seven acres, totaling $2,100, with a requirement for farmers to contribute 50 percent of the total expenses. Commercial farmers are defined as those who manage more than 20 acres of land.