Sharma: Only 10,260 cane growers remain in Fiji
Fiji’s sugarcane industry faces fluctuations, with only 10,260 active growers last season, according to Sugarcane Growers Fund CEO Raj Sharma. Challenges such as labor shortages, production costs, aging farmers, and land rezoning contribute to declining numbers. Despite government support, uncertainty remains. However, post-COVID-19, new growers have emerged, particularly in the West. Sugarcane farming offers stability, resilience, and financial assistance options.
The number of sugarcane growers in Fiji has been showing fluctuations, with only 10,260 growers actively harvesting cane last season, according to Sugarcane Growers Fund CEO Raj Sharma.
“Of these, 4359 are supported by SCGF,” he said.
In response to queries, Mr Sharma said while exact figures on how many farmers may have exited are not available, the fluctuating numbers reflect the challenges the industry faces despite government support.
“We would not have the records as such records are kept by the Sugar Tribunal.”
He said there were contributing factors that led to farmers leaving the industry.
“The trend could be many of the industry challenges despite government support such as shortage of labour, some areas the cost of production, old aged growers, and weather conditions.
“This was coupled with lease uncertainty and or good land being rezoned for commercial and residential purposes.”
Despite these challenges, he expressed gratitude for the strong relationship between the SCGF, the Government, and the TLTB.
“We are thankful for the cordial relationship with the Government and TLTB, which works in the best interest of all.”
He did not reveal if there had been any new farmers joining the industry when asked by this newspaper, however, he said sugar cane farming has many advantages
“It does not require that close attention like other crops, it is resilient to some weather conditions – like floods, etc., and sugar cane farming has an established and stable market.
“The new growers, we have seen benefits after COVID-19, especially in the West after tourism was halted and people laid off.”
He said civil servants and other professionals were able to secure farm and loans with assistance from the Government and SGCF.
To read more about Sugar Industry continue reading Agriinsite.com
Source : The Fiji Times
