Sweet Support or Bitter Struggles? Sugar Cane Farmers Face Mixed Reactions to Third Payment

The recent announcement of a $12.22 per tonne third cane payment has sparked mixed reactions among sugar cane growers in Ba and Lautoka, as they prepare to receive a share of the $133 million generated from the 2024 harvesting season. While some farmers express optimism about the much-needed support, others, like Ba cane producer Arun Sharma, voice significant concerns about the limited financial impact of this payment.

Sharma indicated that much of the money will be absorbed by debts, such as loans to the Sugar Cane Growers Fund and South Pacific Fertilisers, as well as payments to drivers and laborers. He pointed out that with a payment of $12.22 per tonne, a farmer producing 100 tonnes would only receive $1,222, which is insufficient for covering their operational costs.

Atish Kumar, president of the Fiji Cane Lorries Association, echoed these sentiments, noting that while authorities may attribute low prices to reduced cane production, the rising costs of farming continue to challenge growers’ financial stability.

On the other hand, Vimal Dutt, CEO of the Sugar Cane Growers Council, acknowledged the growers’ frustrations and provided context for the payment structure. He explained that the third cane payment’s outcome is influenced by various factors, including last year’s low cane production and the fluctuating prices on the global sugar market. Dutt emphasized the importance of ramping up production to enhance income for farmers in the long run.

This third cane payment is due to be distributed to farmers this Friday, and it plays a crucial role in supporting the farming community as it navigates the challenges of climate change and economic pressures—circumstances that have prompted ongoing governmental support for the sugar industry.

Overall, despite the concerns raised, there is a cautious optimism regarding the future of Fiji’s sugar cane farmers. Increased focus on sustainability and production improvements, along with financial support mechanisms, may offer pathways to better livelihoods within this vital agricultural sector.