Fiji’s sugar industry, once a thriving cornerstone of the nation’s economy, has experienced significant decline, rooted in political upheaval and challenges in land leases. Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh spoke during the submission of the Sugar Industry (Amendment) Bill (Bill No 23 of 2024), emphasizing that the industry flourished when politics stayed out of its operations, particularly before the 1987 coup.
The coup’s fallout resulted in significant shifts in land management, leading to unresolved land lease issues that have persisted for decades. Singh noted, “In 1987, obviously there was ALTO (Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Ordinance), then ALTA (Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Act), which changed the security farmers felt regarding their land.” As a result, many farmers gradually withdrew, seeing a decline from a production peak of 4.2 million tonnes to much lower numbers in the following years.
In earlier years, sugar production thrived, allowing Fiji to export large quantities to markets like the UK and other countries in the region. However, the industry has faced multifaceted challenges recently. Factors including inefficient operational processes, high operational costs, and the lack of modernization within farming practices have led to reduced yields and increasing discontent among farmers. Despite these setbacks, the Minister expressed hope for the industry’s revival, encouraging strategic planning and cooperation among various stakeholders.
Previous discussions highlighted the importance of reevaluating farming methods and exploring diversification into related products, like biomass cogeneration and ethanol production. Moreover, Singh pointed out that there has been notable interest from potential investors looking to modernize the sector, illustrating an optimistic potential for growth if strategic reforms are implemented.
The government has dedicated efforts geared toward upliftment within the industry, including increased prices for sugarcane and support initiatives for farmers. As these initiatives take root, there is a glimmer of optimism for revitalizing Fiji’s sugar sector, fostering resilience against both climatic challenges and economic turmoil as it seeks to reclaim its role in the national economy.
While the road ahead is framed with obstacles, the commitment to modernizing practices and addressing long-standing issues provides a hopeful outlook for the future of Fiji’s sugar industry, restoring it to a position of strength within the agricultural landscape.
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