Despite perceptions of a struggling industry, sugar continues to be one of Fiji’s most lucrative public investments, according to Permanent Secretary Dr. Vinesh Kumar. Recent statistics highlight the sugar sector’s impressive financial performance, demonstrating its value to the national economy.
In 2021, the government allocated $53 million to the sugar industry, which resulted in a remarkable $147 million in export revenue. The following year, a $72 million investment yielded $135 million, while last year, a $45 million investment generated an impressive $209 million in export earnings. These figures underline the sugar industry’s role as a significant contributor to both export revenue and the domestic market.
Dr. Kumar emphasized the importance of the sugar sector in terms of national self-sufficiency and trade balance, noting that it ranks among Fiji’s strongest primary industries. The local demand for sugar is estimated at around $55 to $60 million annually, with the industry successfully supplying approximately 30,000 tons each year to meet this need.
Although acknowledging the challenges the sugar industry faces, Dr. Kumar asserted its critical function in Fiji’s economic and food security. He pointed out that Fiji imports considerable amounts of agricultural products, including 50 to 60 million tons of rice and oil, and over $130 million in dairy products, consuming nearly 60% of the milk available in the country. However, sugar stands out as one of the few commodities for which Fiji achieves self-sufficiency, assisting the economy by reducing reliance on imports and reinforcing national food security.
These assertions reflect the essential stabilizing role of the sugar industry, which supports rural livelihoods and mitigates Fiji’s vulnerability to importing agricultural goods. The future of Fiji’s sugar sector appears promising, as it continues to provide significant economic benefits and contribute to national self-sufficiency despite existing challenges.