The Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Hon. Charan Jeath Singh, yesterday handed over the Pre-Season Burnt Cane Rehabilitation Grant to sugarcane farmers in Sabeto, Nadi, reaffirming government’s commitment to revitalising the sugar industry.
Minister Singh emphasised that the Government’s vision is to restore the sugar industry to its former strength by increasing production and introducing modern farming solutions.
“We are working to revive this vital industry and bring it back to what it used to be. The government is committed to supporting our farmers and ensuring the future sustainability of sugar,” he said.
Highlighting the future direction of the Sugar Industry, Minister Singh reaffirmed the Coalition Government’s plans to construct a new sugar mill in Rakiraki, with expressions of interest already advertised.
Minister Singh further alluded that the Ministry is also addressing the ongoing efforts to address labour shortages through overseas recruitment while also expanding mechanisation. Initiatives such as tractor service providers and the introduction of fertilizer applicators are already in place, with specialized harvesters for hilly terrain to be introduced soon.
He futher briefed on the support from the Government of India, which has committed to providing 12 drones for fertilizer application and a mobile soil testing laboratory to boost sugar research and innovation.
The Minister added that several government grants and assistance programs are available to support farmers in increasing production and adopting modern practices.
He encouraged farmers to plant recommended cane varieties based on guidance from the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji, which will continue to provide timely and practical advice to improve productivity.
“The future of the sugar industry lies in modernization, research, and farmer support. Together, we will build a resilient and thriving sugar sector for Fiji,” Minister Singh said.