Labasa mill targets 605,000 tonnes

The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) has set an ambitious target of processing 605,000 tonnes of cane at its Labasa mill for the upcoming crushing season. This goal represents a continued effort to build upon the steady increase in cane crushed over the past three years.

General Manager Navin Charan emphasized the urgency for farmers to commence harvesting without delay. He highlighted that both time and favorable weather conditions are critical factors in achieving the target before the onset of the wet season, which could disrupt operations. "Just very briefly, this year we aim to crush around 605,000 tonnes of cane here at Labasa. And this reflects a gradual improvement year on year," Charan stated.

Last year, the Labasa mill processed just over 583,000 tonnes of cane, an improvement from the approximately 555,000 tonnes crushed the year prior. The corporation is optimistic about exceeding the 605,000-tonne goal, recognizing that any amount above this would be highly beneficial for Labasa and the sugar industry as a whole.

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Just very briefly, this year we aim to crush around 605,000 tonnes of cane here at Labasa. And this reflects a gradual improvement year on year.

Echoing the FSC's call, Labasa cane farmer Adi Mela Qomate urged her fellow farmers to seize the opportunity. "To my fellow farmers across Labasa, the mill gates are open. I call on all of you to start harvesting right away. Let us utilise the harvesting and transport subsidies provided to us. Get our harvesting gangs into the sectors and deliver our cane to the mill," she implored.

FSC anticipates a surge in cane deliveries in the coming days as more farmers across the Northern Division begin their harvesting activities. The corporation is committed to supporting farmers through available subsidies to ensure a productive and successful crushing season.

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To my fellow farmers across Labasa, the mill gates are open. I call on all of you to start harvesting right away. Let us utilise the harvesting and transport subsidies provided to us. Get our harvesting gangs into the sectors and deliver our cane to the mill.