More than 150 rice farmers are set to gain from a $150,000 government grant designated for Fiji Rice Limited (FRL) to support rice planting in the current financial year. The government-subsidized rice planting initiative aims to assist rice farmers by offsetting planting expenses and boosting production.
Chairman Raj Sharma indicated that this funding is projected to enhance national production by an additional 400 tonnes. He noted, “With the current price of $1000 per acre of rice, we anticipate generating nearly $400,000 for these farmers.”
Mr. Sharma also mentioned ongoing efforts to remodel the business. He highlighted that many incentives from the government are on the way, including fertilizer and weedicide subsidies for farmers, which were previously minimal. He added that the price per acre was raised last year from $850 to $1000.
According to the statement, commercial farmers will be eligible for a maximum grant covering up to seven acres, amounting to $2100, with a requirement to contribute 50 percent of the total costs. Commercial farmers are defined as those managing over 20 acres of land.