Nearly 11,000 sugarcane farmers in Fiji are set to benefit from a final payment of $4 per tonne for the 2023 season. This increase of $1.43, provided by the Government, pushes the total cane price to an impressive $105.08 per tonne, the highest recorded payment ever for the industry.
Vimal Dutt, CEO of the Sugar Cane Growers Council, expressed gratitude to the Government for this financial boost, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on farming families who will receive their full net proceeds without any deductions. “This certainly brings more joy and happiness to the growers’ family and helps build a resilient farming community,” Dutt stated, highlighting the struggles faced during the season due to challenging weather conditions and reduced rainfall, which have affected production levels.
Despite these hurdles, Dutt praised the steadfast commitment of growers, who have benefited from government grants and initiatives focused on replanting and in-field training. With the cane crushing season coming to a close—Viti Levu mills already shut down and the Labasa mill set to close on November 6, 2024—growers are encouraged to continue their harvesting efforts.
This development not only signifies economic relief for local farmers but also highlights the importance of community support systems in agriculture, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. The solidarity among farmers and their ongoing commitment to their livelihoods bode well for the future of Fiji’s sugarcane industry.
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