Sugar and Multiethnic Affairs Minister Charan Jeath Singh has expressed strong support for the 2025-2026 National Budget, terming it as a “perfect budget” that caters to the needs of all Fijians. Singh highlighted that the budget aligns with public expectations and firmly addresses their requests.
One of the key takeaways for the sugar industry is the increased allocation to the Sugar Ministry, which rose from $70.1 million to $72 million. Singh emphasized this incremental boost signals the Coalition’s commitment to supporting the sugar sector in the upcoming fiscal year.
The budget estimates indicate that the ministry will maintain its subsidy programs for fertilizer and weedicide, along with initiatives to support cane transport from Penang to Rarawai. This strategic support aims to alleviate the financial burden on farmers amid rising transportation and production costs.
Additionally, the budget allocates significant funding to several projects within the sugar industry. Notable allocations include:
– Sugar Research Institute of Fiji: $1,115,100
– International Sugar Council: $47,000
– Sugar Tribunal: $391,300
– Sugar Cane Growers Council: $782,600
– Sugarcane Development and Farmers Assistance: $3,913,000
The continuation of aids such as the Weedicide Subsidy by the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), which amounts to $978,200, along with a fertilizer subsidy of $19,565,200 and a Sugar Stabilization Fund of $9,782,600 illustrates the government’s intention to promote sustainability and stability in the sugar sector.
Furthermore, the investments in the Farm Incentive Program and cane cartage subsidies, totaling over $4 million, emphasize a focused effort to enhance logistical support for farmers. This support not only aims to promote productivity but also targets the broader economic stability of Fiji’s agricultural landscape.
Such initiatives are not only expected to enhance the performance of the sugar sector but also signal a hopeful outlook for future growth opportunities within the industry. As the government solidifies its commitment to supporting local farmers, the potential for innovation and improvement in the sugar industry under these reinforced budgetary provisions appears promising.
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