The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) is taking significant steps to improve the resilience and productivity of sugarcane farming in Fiji by promoting high-quality, location-specific varieties that are both sugar-rich and tolerant to saline conditions. A notable focus of this initiative is on the Beqa variety, which has shown exceptional yields and is now being cultivated for the first time in FSC estates and selected farmer fields, thanks to breeder seeds from the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF).
FSC CEO Bhan Pratap Singh highlighted this achievement, indicating a strategic collaboration with SRIF that began in 2022 to revitalize vital sugarcane cultivars. The broader propagation of the Beqa variety throughout FSC estates in Rarawai and Nadi marks a significant advancement for the industry.
Singh remarked, “Our focus is on ensuring that farmers have access to the best varieties suited to Fiji’s unique conditions. The introduction of Beqa and Galoa marks a significant milestone in FSC’s efforts to enhance productivity and address climate challenges.” The Beqa variety is reported to yield up to 110 tonnes per hectare, boasting a sugar content that surpasses that of the Mana variety by 5%.
To assist farmers, FSC has developed a two-tier seed nursery program, which will initially provide seeds at no cost to farmers during the early stages. The aim is to widely distribute seeds in the upcoming planting season from April to July, promising to be transformative for sugarcane farming.
In tackling climate change, FSC is also promoting saline-tolerant varieties like Galoa, which are being multiplied across all mills. This is particularly vital for regions vulnerable to flooding and soil salinity due to seawater intrusion, which presents a growing threat to sugarcane production.
The proactive strategies undertaken by FSC and SRIF offer a promising outlook for the sugarcane industry in Fiji, suggesting that the sector can become more sustainable and productive despite environmental challenges. This collaborative effort emphasizes innovation and adaptation as essential components for future growth, ultimately supporting food security and improving the livelihoods of sugarcane farmers.
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