Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh has delivered a stern warning to sugarcane farmers in Lautoka, urging them to either commit fully to their farming responsibilities or vacate their land. This message stems from a recent incident in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, where four farmers falsely claimed they were denied access to land for sugarcane cultivation.

During his remarks, Singh emphasized the need for honesty and accountability among farmers, especially in relation to financial obligations. The farmers in question had reportedly taken loans from the Sugarcane Growers Fund and failed to make repayments for five to six years. Singh expressed concern over their attempts to shift blame onto landowners, stating, “Farmers should not cheat the industry.”

This warning highlights broader challenges facing Fiji’s sugar industry, which has seen average yields plummet from 100 tons per hectare to around 47 tons. Various factors, including inadequate support from the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) and ineffective land management, have contributed to this decline. Minister Singh has previously criticized the FSC for its lack of support and called for better agricultural practices, mechanization, and accountability among both farmers and corporation staff.

Singh’s call for integrity aims to promote a revitalization in the sugarcane sector. By encouraging farmers to take their responsibilities seriously, there is a potential for increased productivity and a more sustainable future for Fiji’s agricultural landscape. As the industry faces significant hurdles, Singh’s emphasis on personal responsibility and commitment provides a hopeful outlook for recovery and growth.

In summary, while the sugar industry encounters serious obstacles, Singh’s strong calls for transparency and dedication among farmers may be key to restoring the sector’s health and productivity, paving the way for a brighter future.