Fiji’s Sugar Industry on the Brink: Can Innovation Save It?

When the sugar industry was flourishing, the leadership of the Fiji Sugar Corporation failed to adapt to a global shift towards diversifying sugar production into areas such as cogeneration, ethanol, refining, and brown sugar manufacturing. Minister for Sugar Industry, Charan Jeath Singh, expressed this concern while discussing the Sugar Industry Amendment Bill of 2024. He noted that Fiji’s emphasis on traditional farming practices has resulted in a stagnant industry that struggles to meet the demands of a competitive global market.

Singh emphasized the pressing need for transformation, stating that the costs for farmers have increased dramatically, with transportation fees reaching up to $35 per ton of delivered cane. This situation highlights the economic burden on farmers and the need for industry reforms to revive profitability.

To address these challenges, Singh mentioned collaboration with Fiji Airways and Airbus, who are providing financial support aimed at helping the sugar industry meet a production target of 3.4 million tonnes of cane. Such partnerships are critical for ensuring stability not only for sugar farmers and workers but also for the broader economy.

This call for modernization comes amidst broader concerns about the aging workforce within the sugar sector and the dwindling interest of younger generations in sugarcane farming. A previous study by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) noted a significant decrease in active sugarcane farmers, highlighting the urgent need for strategic investments and innovative agricultural practices to invigorate the industry.

Despite the hurdles, the outlook for the sugar industry holds potential for growth through diversification and improved farming techniques. The commitment from both governmental bodies and private sector stakeholders suggests there is hope for rejuvenating Fiji’s sugar sector, creating a sustainable future for farmers and contributing positively to the nation’s economy.

Overall, while Fiji’s sugar industry faces significant challenges marked by its traditional reliance on a single production model, the renewed focus on partnerships and strategic reform efforts brings a sense of optimism for reviving this essential sector.