By Adam Said Adam
The Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna, has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to revive and strengthen the sugar industry across the country.
The Minister made the call during a series of meetings with major players in the sector in Lautoka, including the Board of the Fiji Sugar Corporation, the Executive Management Team of the Sugar Cane Growers Council, and management of South Pacific Fertiliser.
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The discussions focused on addressing major challenges confronting the industry such as sugar cane pricing, farm productivity, access to fertilizers, and the impact of climate change on cane production.
Tunabuna emphasised that collaboration among government institutions, farmers, and industry stakeholders is critical to ensuring the sector’s sustainability and long-term growth.
“The sugar industry is a critical component of Fiji’s economy, and it is essential that we work together to address the challenges it faces,” the Minister said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through improved infrastructure, modern agricultural practices, and the promotion of value-added sugar products.
The meetings also provided the Minister with insights into the operational realities of the industry, helping to shape targeted interventions aimed at boosting productivity and competitiveness.
Stakeholders welcomed the Minister’s engagement, describing it as a positive step toward tackling longstanding challenges in the sector.
Representatives of the Sugar Cane Growers Council said the industry remains central to the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and expressed optimism that stronger collaboration with government will drive growth and improve farmers’ welfare.
Fiji’s sugar industry employs thousands of people and contributes significantly to export earnings. However, it continues to face obstacles including declining productivity, inadequate infrastructure, and climate change pressures.
Industry leaders say ongoing initiatives by the Fiji Sugar Corporation, such as the introduction of drought-resistant cane varieties and improved farming practices, alongside exploration of value-added products like bioethanol, could help reposition the sector for sustainable growth.
The Minister’s engagement with stakeholders is expected to lead to concrete measures aimed at revitalising the industry and strengthening its contribution to the Fijian economy.
