The sugar industry plays a crucial role in Fiji’s agricultural landscape, with significant contributions from the Labasa and Northern growers. Ahemed Bhamji, the chairman of the Sugar Cane Growers Fund, emphasized this importance during the recent Farmers’ Annual Open Day in Labasa. He highlighted the government’s ongoing support for the sugar sector, which includes a $35 million loan portfolio, of which 33 percent is sourced from the Northern region.
Bhamji aims to increase the market share in the sugar cane loan segment from 65 percent to 75 percent by the year 2028, contingent on the industry producing over two million tonnes of sugar cane in the near term. This ambitious goal underscores the need for collaborative efforts among all stakeholders, including farmers, laborers, and landowners, to nurture the agricultural sector, which holds significant potential for economic growth.
Citing the Agriculture Survey Report of 2020, he revealed there are approximately 20,360 farmers in Fiji, though this figure may not represent all sugarcane growers. This includes 10,260 sugarcane farmers, along with members from diverse agricultural sectors such as crop and livestock, rice, copra, and cash crops. With such a vast farmer population, Bhamji noted there is still considerable work needed to ensure their respect and dignity within the industry.
This need for collective action aligns with previous calls from industry stakeholders for tangible support to improve the lives of farmers. Initiatives like the Farm Mechanization Grant and government assistance programs are vital for addressing challenges such as high production costs, labor shortages, and efficient land usage. Recently, the Ministry of Sugar has announced multiple assistance programs aimed at improving land security and increasing productivity through modernization.
Overall, the positive outlook for Fiji’s sugar industry reflects ongoing efforts to revitalize agricultural practices, boost sustainability, and ensure that farmers remain at the forefront of economic contributions. With continued collaboration and innovation, there is a hopeful pathway for the future of sugarcane farming in Fiji, enhancing both the livelihoods of farmers and the overall stability of the agricultural sector.
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