Labasa Farmers Defy Pressure, Continue Cane Harvest Amidst Challenges

Labasa's cane farmers are being lauded for their unwavering commitment to harvesting their crops, even as the 2026 crushing season began with significant challenges.

Minister for Sugar Tomasi Tunabuna expressed deep appreciation for the farmers' efforts, highlighting that cane deliveries to the Labasa Mill have steadily improved. He noted that despite pressure from certain individuals advocating for a halt to harvesting, the farmers in the Northern Division demonstrated strong resolve and dedication to the sugar industry.

"I’d like to extend our deep appreciation to the cane farming community here in the North and all those who have been involved in the cane industry," Tunabuna stated. "Labasa and the Northern Division have shown very positive support in addressing the need to harvest sugar cane this year."

“

I’d like to extend our deep appreciation to the cane farming community here in the North and all those who have been involved in the cane industry. Labasa and the Northern Division have shown very positive support in addressing the need to harvest sugar cane this year.

The Minister emphasized the farmers' personal decision to proceed with harvesting regardless of obstacles. "Despite the challenges, farmers decided for themselves that, come what may, they would harvest their crop and they did exactly that," he added.

Tunabuna contrasted the situation in Labasa with other milling areas where cane supply has fallen short of expectations. He stressed that maintaining harvesting momentum is vital for achieving the season's sugar production targets. The resilience shown by the northern farmers is seen as a critical factor in protecting their livelihoods and ensuring the continued viability of the sugar industry in the region.

“

Despite the challenges, farmers decided for themselves that, come what may, they would harvest their crop and they did exactly that.