The Sugar Cane Growers Council (SCGC) has voiced significant concerns regarding a proposed hike in electricity tariffs, which they believe will further burden cane growers who are already facing challenges in maintaining daily farm operations. In a recent statement, SCGC highlighted that many growers struggled to meet sustainable production targets during the 2025 harvesting season, largely due to adverse climatic conditions and persistent uncertainties within the industry.
According to the Council, these pressing challenges have not only impacted growers’ incomes but also hindered their capacity to cover essential operational costs. They emphasized that the cost of conducting business in the agricultural sector is steadily increasing, leaving farming enterprises more susceptible to financial strain.
In light of these difficulties, the SCGC advocates for the establishment of a relief mechanism, urging that the implementation of the proposed electricity tariff increase be reconsidered. The Council stresses the importance of acknowledging the financial realities faced by cane growers, warning that any further increases in costs could pose a significant threat to the long-term viability of the sugar industry.
This cautious approach reflects the broader sentiment within agricultural sectors, where rising operational costs can have cascading effects on production capabilities and industry stability. The SCGC’s plea is a call to action, aiming to ensure that the interests of cane growers are adequately represented and protected amidst mounting economic pressures.