Farmers demand answers on cane payments

Fijian cane growers are urgently seeking clarification on payment structures as financial concerns mount ahead of the 2026 harvesting season.

Opposition Member of Parliament Viam Pillay has voiced strong criticism against the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) Board, alleging a failure to adequately address farmers' issues before the forecast cane price was announced. Pillay stated the Board was aware of the growers' challenges but only raised the matter with the Ministry of Sugar after public attention was drawn to the concerns.

He questioned the lack of earlier, stronger action, emphasizing that farmers require concrete solutions, not mere explanations. Pillay noted that the current payment system is causing significant financial strain, forcing some growers to take out loans to commence harvesting.

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He questioned why stronger action was not taken earlier, arguing that farmers need solutions rather than explanations.

The guaranteed minimum cane price of $85 per tonne, Pillay argued, should be reflected in an updated forecast cane price and delivery payment to ensure farmer certainty. He is also calling for an immediate announcement on fuel rebates for cane lorry operators and fair rates for mechanical harvesters to reduce production costs.

Despite the anxieties, Pillay urged farmers not to boycott the upcoming harvest, warning it would ultimately harm growers. He stressed the need for authorities, including the FSC, the Sugar Industry Tribunal, and the Government, to provide clear answers and necessary support to sustain the sugar industry before harvesting begins.

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Pillay says a boycott would ultimately hurt growers but stresses that authorities must urgently provide clarity on cane payments and support measures needed to sustain the sugar industry.