Misinformation fuels sugar lease renewal concerns in Fiji

The Fijian Ministry of Sugar Industry is raising serious concerns over a growing reluctance among sugarcane farmers to renew their land leases. Minister Tomasi Tunabuna attributes this trend to misinformation, warning that it poses a significant threat to the long-term viability of the nation's sugar production.

Tunabuna highlighted that the renewal of leases set to expire before 2030 is a primary focus. He expressed worry that farmers might opt out of renewal because of misleading information. "If this trend continues, it could have a significant impact on sugarcane production and the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry," Tunabuna stated, emphasizing the fragile state of the industry.

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Right now, our main concern is the renewal of land leases that are set to expire before 2030. There is growing concern that some farmers may choose not to renew their leases due to misinformation. If this trend continues, it could have a significant impact on sugarcane production and the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry.

Adding to the concern, Tunabuna noted that farmers are not fully utilizing available opportunities, with a considerable amount of land originally leased for sugarcane lying idle. The ministry and the Sugar Cane Growers Fund continue to provide support to encourage productive use and boost cultivation. Raj Sharma, Chief Executive of the Sugar Cane Growers Fund, confirmed their close collaboration with the Ministry of Lands.

"We have a good working relationship with the Ministry of Lands, and through our collaborative efforts, approximately 70 percent of agricultural leases have already been renewed. This is a positive development, as it provides greater security for farmers and helps ensure the continued use of land for sugarcane cultivation," Sharma said. The Ministry of Sugar Industry and the Sugar Cane Growers Fund are intensifying their engagement with farmers and landowners to secure crucial lease renewals and protect national sugar production levels leading up to 2030.

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We have a good working relationship with the Ministry of Lands, and through our collaborative efforts, approximately 70 percent of agricultural leases have already been renewed. This is a positive development, as it provides greater security for farmers and helps ensure the continued use of land for sugarcane cultivation.