The National Farmers Union (NFU) has raised serious concerns over the decision by the Sugar Industry Tribunal to halt operations at the Labasa Mill on November 24, which they argue will leave tens of thousands of tonnes of sugarcane unharvested and place farmers in a dire situation. According to the NFT, around 40,000 tonnes of sugarcane are still in the fields and due for harvest, raising alarm among the agricultural community.
NFU General Secretary Mahendra Chaudhry attributed the delays in harvesting and crushing operations to a combination of adverse weather conditions and severe labor shortages in recent weeks. He criticized the mill management for their inadequate responses to these challenges, highlighting that their lack of leadership has significantly affected the cane supply and ultimately increased the financial strain on farmers.
Chaudhry pointed out that frequent disruptions and unannounced stoppages at the Labasa Mill have compounded the problems, resulting in chaos and a demoralized farmer community. He indicated that logistical issues, such as an unavailable loader for offloading cane, could have been managed if the management had acted proactively instead of opting to shut down the mill entirely, which has caused long waiting times for lorries exceeding 18 hours.
The NFU is calling for urgent government intervention and a re-evaluation of the mill’s closure date to ensure that all farmers are treated equitably and that no cane goes to waste. Chaudhry emphasized that the government had previously assured that every sugarcane stick would be harvested and milled and is urging the Sugar Minister to uphold that promise.
This situation follows a broader trend of operational inefficiencies affecting Fiji’s sugar mills, as highlighted by previous reports. For instance, the Lautoka Sugar Mill has also faced considerable challenges with mechanical failures and excessive stoppages, leading to unprocessed cane and financial losses for farmers. These cumulative issues underscore the need for improved management, infrastructure, and strategic oversight to revitalize Fiji’s sugar industry.
Despite the current crisis, there is hope within the farming community as they seek collaborative improvements and advocate for better conditions. The resilience and determination of the farmers signal a potential path toward recovery, as stakeholders work together to address ongoing challenges and implement necessary reforms for a sustainable future in Fiji’s sugar sector.
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