The Fijian government is set to review the recommendations from a recent study conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) regarding the country’s sugar industry. Minister for Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh, praised the FAO for its valuable technical support and highlighted the significance of their findings in fostering a sustainable future for Fiji’s sugar sector.
The FAO study outlines a comprehensive plan aimed at restructuring the sugar industry to enhance its long-term sustainability and resilience. Singh emphasized that the FAO’s strategic recommendations seek to tackle current challenges and secure the industry’s future.
Key suggestions from the study include the establishment of a governance model to improve institutional roles, coordination, and innovation. Moreover, the aim is to boost sugarcane yields to 60–65 tonnes per hectare and enhance cane quality to achieve a desirable TCTS (tonnes of cane per tonne of sugar) ratio of nine.
Additionally, the study recommends the development of ethanol production and biomass cogeneration systems, which would not only provide additional revenue streams but also align with Fiji’s decarbonization goals. Singh noted that the FAO has proposed redirecting industry assistance towards renewable energy initiatives, with the ultimate aim of reducing reliance on such programs.
The government is committed to revitalizing the sugar industry, which plays a crucial role in Fiji’s economy while also contributing to the nation’s sustainable development objectives. The study’s recommendations further include innovating land tenure models to ensure security and promote sustainable investment in farming, along with introducing payment systems based on cane quality. This would encourage farmers to adopt best practices and focus on cultivating high-sucrose crops.
In summary, the FAO’s proposals signal a proactive approach to ensuring the sugar industry’s vitality in Fiji. By addressing various aspects of the industry, from governance to sustainable practices, the government aims to not only sustain but also grow its contributions to the economy. This presents an optimistic outlook for the country’s agricultural future while reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability.
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