Fiji : Six new incentives introduced to support sugarcane growers
Fiji has introduced six new incentives to support sugarcane farmers, including lower loan rates, revolving credit, insurance cover and retirement savings via Fiji National Provident Fund. Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna said the measures aim to ease financial stress and strengthen long-term industry sustainability.
Sugarcane farmers will benefit from six new incentives and support measures aimed at easing financial pressures and strengthening the long-term sustainability of Fiji’s sugar industry.
The initiatives include lower loan interest rates, which have been reduced from 4.5 percent to 3.95 percent effective from 1 January 2026.
Growers who achieve 75 percent green cane harvest will qualify for an even lower interest rate of 3.5 percent.
Farmers will also gain access to a new revolving credit facility, allowing easier access to funds when needed without having to repeatedly apply for loans.
A commercial loan option has also been introduced to help growers diversify and develop additional sources of income beyond sugar production.
Additional support initiatives include a voluntary savings scheme with the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) to assist farmers in building retirement savings, as well as Mortgage Protection Insurance that will clear Sugar Cane Growers Fund loans of up to $50,000 in the event of death or permanent disability.
Farmers will also benefit from House Fire Insurance to help protect their homes.
Programs to support the next generation of farmers will continue, including grants of up to $7,500 to assist new farmers and support lease renewals. Financing opportunities for women in the sugar industry will also be expanded.
Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry Tomasi Tunabuna said the measures are designed to provide practical support for growers facing rising costs and climate-related challenges.
“These initiatives are about easing the financial burden on our growers while helping them build stronger and more secure farming businesses for the future,” he said.
Support has also been provided by the Bring a Smile New Zealand Charity Group, which will assist farming families facing medical, financial and social challenges.
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Source : The Fiji Times
