The National Farmers Union (NFU) is calling on the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) and the Sugar Industry Tribunal to revoke the penalty imposed for burnt sugarcane delivered to the Lautoka Mill. This appeal follows the shutdown of the Rarawai Mill due to a severe fire that caused extensive damage to its power house and electrical systems. NFU General Secretary Mahendra Chaudhry pointed out that as a result of the Rarawai Mill’s closure, all the cane from the Viti Levu cane belt must now be redirected to the Lautoka Mill. This shift has led to significant congestion and delays, with some sugarcane waiting up to 6-10 days before processing.
Chaudhry strongly criticized the $7 per tonne fine levied on farmers, insisting they should not be held responsible for delays stemming from the Rarawai Mill incident, which he attributes to the negligence of the FSC. The NFU maintains that it is the FSC that should bear the responsibility rather than penalizing farmers struggling with logistical hurdles beyond their control.
Amid this ongoing crisis, questions have been directed at Sugar Industry Minister Charan Jeath Singh and FSC CEO Bhan Pratap Singh, seeking explanations and solutions to the emerging problems plaguing the sugar industry.
The push for a waiver of the burnt cane penalty comes in the backdrop of persistent issues faced by the Lautoka Sugar Mill, including numerous breakdowns and operational inefficiencies. Farmers have voiced their frustration over the mill’s management and technical shortfalls, which they argue have failed to support the industry’s requirements.
This situation highlights the fragility of Fiji’s sugar industry infrastructure, suggesting an urgent need for strategic investment and modernization to enhance the sector’s resilience. While the immediate priority is on addressing the repercussions of the Rarawai Mill fire, there is a pressing need for broader systemic reforms and infrastructure upgrades to ensure long-term sustainability. Nevertheless, the coordinated efforts and resilience shown by industry stakeholders foster hope for the future stability and prosperity of the sugar industry in Fiji.