In an exciting development for Fiji’s sugar industry, a mechanical sugar harvester specifically designed for hilly terrain will be tested during the 2025 harvesting season. Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Charan Jeath Singh, announced that this innovative machine has been sourced from Kumiki Company Ltd, based in Okinawa, Japan.
Minister Singh highlighted the harvester’s suitability for Fiji’s challenging topography, noting that it has proven effective in Japan. The introduction of this technology aims to tackle the labor challenges faced by farmers working on difficult slopes, as current harvesting equipment is primarily designed for flat landscapes.
The new harvester features a 1-tonne bin capacity for efficient storage of harvested sugar cane, which is then transferred to trucks using a crane. With the capability to harvest around 7 tons of cane per hour, it holds significant promise for enhancing productivity in Fiji’s sugar sector.
This trial run offers a hopeful outlook for the future of sugar farming in Fiji, as it not only aims to improve operational efficiency but also addresses the pressing labor shortages in agricultural sectors. By incorporating advanced machinery, Fiji could strengthen its sugar industry and support local farmers in overcoming geographical limitations.
In summary, the introduction of this mechanical harvester represents a significant step forward for the sugar industry in Fiji, promising to enhance productivity and ease the challenges faced by farmers in hilly areas.
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