Fiji’s Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh delivered a stern message to sugarcane farmers in Lautoka, urging them to show genuine commitment to their farming responsibilities or leave the land. This warning comes in light of recent incidents in Seaqaqa where four farmers falsely claimed they were unfairly denied land to cultivate sugar cane.
Minister Singh emphasized the importance of honesty among farmers, particularly in managing loans from the Sugarcane Growers Fund. He pointed out that the farmers in question have not made payments on their loans for five to six years, raising serious doubts about their integrity in claiming land access issues.
“Farmers should not cheat the industry and must take responsibility for their actions,” Singh stated. He further advised those lacking interest in cultivating sugarcane to vacate the land so it could be utilized by others who are genuinely committed.
Previously, Singh has criticized the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) for neglecting its support to farmers, which has contributed to a significant decline in sugarcane production. The average yield per hectare has dropped from 100 tons to around 47 tons due to various factors, including failure to replant on time and inadequate support from FSC personnel. Singh has called for a renewed focus on agricultural practices, suggesting that farmers should aim to maximize output on smaller plots rather than spreading themselves thin across larger areas.
These concerns have highlighted the broader challenges facing the sugar industry in Fiji. Singh is advocating for mechanization and better land management to boost productivity, aiming for a return to higher average yields.
In summary, while the hurdles in the sugarcane industry are significant, Singh’s firm calls for accountability among farmers and FSC employees lay the groundwork for potential revitalization. With a commitment to restore productivity and support, there is a hopeful path forward for the sugarcane sector in Fiji.
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