$96.3m allocated to support sugar industry

Fiji's Ministry for Sugar will receive a significant boost in funding for the 2026–2027 National Budget, with an allocation of $96.3 million. This represents a substantial increase from the $72.2 million provided in the current financial year, signaling the government's commitment to the vital sugar industry.

Despite facing headwinds from declining global sugar prices and escalating fuel costs, the government has pledged to maintain the cane payment rate at $85 per tonne for the upcoming 2026 season. This decision is crucial for supporting the livelihoods of sugarcane farmers who are central to the industry's operations.

Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad highlighted the government's strategy to navigate these economic challenges. The increased budget allocation is expected to facilitate investments in improving efficiency, modernizing infrastructure, and potentially exploring new avenues for growth within the sugar sector. The continued support underscores the industry's importance to Fiji's economy.