The Lautoka and Rarawai sugar mills have experienced intermittent closures this crushing season due to a low supply of sugar cane. Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh indicated that the mills sometimes have to stop operations because of insufficient cane availability. He emphasized that running a mill without sugar cane is not economically viable and creates a financial strain on the industry.
Singh acknowledged that the reasons for the closures may be unclear to some, leading to confusion among stakeholders. He also noted that equipment issues, particularly boiler breakdowns, have contributed to the problem, causing delays for farmers and drivers. Currently, three mills operated by the Fiji Sugar Corporation are active, with the Labasa Sugar Mill noted for its efficiency and minimal downtime.