Labasa farmers demand longer leases for sugar industry survival

Sugar cane farmers in Labasa are pushing for extended land leases, asserting that resolving land tenure issues is vital for the future of Fiji's struggling sugar industry. They argue that current lease terms are insufficient to encourage investment and long-term commitment to farming.

Farmer Taiyab Hussein highlighted that leases of 75 to 99 years would motivate more farmers to continue cane cultivation. He explained to the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Sugar Industry that short lease renewals, particularly those with only 10 years remaining, prevent banks and growers' funds from providing necessary financing for land development and operations.

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if leases are given between 75 and 99 years, more farmers will be encouraged to continue cane farming.

However, the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) Chief Executive, Solomone Nata, indicated that around 800 leases are set for renewal in the Northern Division, a positive sign for the region. While Nata confirmed that some leases are being renewed and others will be repurposed or returned to landowners, he did not specify the duration of the new leases. The TLTB is also managing 19 leases for alternative uses.

Nata emphasized the TLTB's role in supporting the sugar industry while also ensuring a balance with the interests of landowners. The board's decisions on lease renewals will significantly impact the agricultural landscape and the economic prospects of farmers in the North.

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Out of those 106 leases that will expire between this year and 2036, 820 or something will be renewed. Some are being renewed. So, that’s a big plus for the North. And 100-something will be used for other purposes or reverted to the landowners.