Fiji’s Sugar Revolution: Can New Varieties Save the Industry?

The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) has made significant strides in sugarcane production, particularly through the effective multiplication of the Beqa cane variety. This development was made possible through a collaboration with the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF), which provided essential breeder seeds for the initiative.

Since initiating this partnership in 2022, FSC has focused on revitalizing key sugarcane varieties to better equip farmers with cultivars suited for Fiji’s agricultural landscape. According to FSC’s CEO, Bhan Singh, the introduction of Beqa, along with another variety named Galoa, is vital for boosting productivity and addressing climate-related challenges in the sugar industry. These new varieties are expected to enhance yields and foster sustainability within the sector.

To support the adoption of these improved varieties, FSC has implemented a two-tier seed nursery program that allows farmers to receive seeds at no cost, encouraging them to cultivate these advanced options. This strategy is intended to promote a network among farmers for sharing and transporting seeds, creating a collaborative farming community.

FSC and SRIF are dedicated to monitoring the performance of the Beqa variety to ensure it meets production targets and quality benchmarks. This initiative represents a promising step towards a sustainable and productive future for Fiji’s sugar industry, reinforcing its role in the national economy.

The partnership between FSC and SRIF also highlights a commitment to tackling the challenges posed by climate change, especially in coastal regions vulnerable to soil salinity. Implementing resilient varieties like Beqa and Galoa is essential for maintaining the competitiveness of Fiji’s sugarcane sector on local and global scales.

Overall, this initiative not only aims to boost agricultural productivity but also strengthens the livelihoods of local farmers, showcasing the importance of adaptability and innovation in contemporary agricultural practices. With these efforts, there is hope for a resilient future in Fiji’s sugar industry.