Charan Jeath Singh, a businessman from Labasa and the Minister for Sugar, has stated that it wasn’t possible for the Government to accommodate everyone’s requests in the 2024-2025 National Budget. While many had hoped for a decrease in the Value Added Tax, this expectation wasn’t met.
Singh explained that the budget did not align with everyone’s expectations, but maintained that it holds promise. In a conversation with our correspondents, he pointed out that despite some disappointments, the budget has led to pay raises for civil servants and regular citizens. Singh insisted there were no hidden or questionable elements in the budget.
Singh also acknowledged the long-standing demand for an increase in minimum wages, assuring that the government was attentive to these cries. He pointed out that the full amount requested was granted to the Ministry of Sugar. These funds will be channeled towards farm development with the aim of boosting cane production.
Funds will further be allocated for fertiliser and weedicide subsidies, upgrading cane access roads, lease premium assistance, drainage, and farm mechanisation. Singh added that provisions for the Sugacane Growers Council to run elections and operations were also made.