The Ministry of Lands in Fiji is currently grappling with significant challenges in the sugar industry, particularly concerning absentee farmers who are not utilizing their leased land. Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, pointed out that uncultivated land, the inability to pay ground rentals, and climate change are major obstacles impacting sugarcane production.
One of the most pressing issues is the breach of lease conditions, which may lead to lease cancellations when farmers fail to comply. The Ministry is actively collaborating with the Ministry of Sugar to foster sustainability in the industry. Initiatives such as secure land tenure and provisions for waiving arrear payments aim to encourage investment and improve productivity within sugar farming.
Minister Vosarogo highlighted the growing trend of converting agricultural leases to more profitable uses, indicating a shift in societal priorities. Although this poses challenges for cane production, the Ministry recognizes the rights of lessees to utilize their land according to their aspirations. He suggested that a comprehensive assessment of the sugar industry’s viability may be necessary for its future contribution to the Fijian economy.
This narrative mirrors the concerns previously expressed by Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh, who has urged absentee farmers to return their leases if they are not actively cultivating their land. There is also a shared sentiment about the decline in sugarcane yield, with average production falling from an estimated 100 tons per hectare to around 47 tons, underscoring a dire need for engagement from local farmers.
The situation presents an opportunity for growth and revitalization in the sugar sector, provided there is a collective effort to address the existing challenges. By fostering responsible land use and increasing productivity through innovative farming practices, there is potential for the sugar industry to regain its prominence in Fiji’s agricultural landscape.
Overall, the commitment to collaboration between government entities and farmers offers a positive outlook for the future of Fiji’s sugar industry, which remains a crucial component of the nation’s economy.
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