Fiji’s upcoming 2025 sugarcane crushing season is projected to extend later than usual, possibly reaching into mid-December or even the first week of January 2026. This potential delay is largely due to over 355,000 tonnes of cane that remain uncrushed in the Lautoka, Rarawai, and Penang mill areas. Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh revealed these figures during a parliamentary session last Thursday, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding operations at the Rarawai Mill, which could further impact the timeline.
As of August, the Lautoka area still had 19,000 tonnes of cane waiting to be processed, while the Rarawai and Penang regions accounted for an additional 265,000 tonnes. Currently, the Lautoka Mill is operational, processing between 4,500 to 5,500 tonnes of cane daily. Minister Singh emphasized the critical need for government support to the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), warning that financial instability could threaten timely payments to farmers and job security.
In light of the challenges the industry faces, Singh called for urgent investments to modernize facilities, particularly stressing the necessity of a new mill for Viti Levu. He reinforced the government’s dedication to empowering over 10,000 cane farmers, aiming for modernization that enhances resilience against future challenges. “These are not easy days for the industry,” he stated, while expressing optimism that with unity and resilience, Fiji’s sugar industry can emerge stronger.
The situation reflects a broader pattern within the sugar sector, which has seen mixed results in recent years. While optimistic projections for the 2025 season suggest a significant increase in production due to previous investments and improved crop care—bolstered by a commitment of $7.6 million in special cane payments—the current state paints a picture of both challenges and opportunities.
With ongoing government interventions and efforts toward modernizing operations, stakeholders in Fiji’s sugar industry are fostering a spirit of collaboration aimed at revitalizing this vital agricultural sector. With the right support and a commitment to overcoming obstacles, there is a hopeful outlook for a successful sugarcane season in 2025, promising better returns for farmers and communities reliant on this essential industry.