The Sugar Industry Tribunal has announced significant news for sugarcane growers, confirming that the final cane payment for the 2024 season will total a remarkable $101.13 per tonne. This payment marks one of the highest recorded payouts in the industry’s history. According to Timothy Brown, the Tribunal’s spokesperson, the net share of cane proceeds for the season has reached $117,023,635, translating to approximately $87.86 per tonne.
Thus far, the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) has disbursed a total of $91.66 per tonne to farmers, which includes various payments such as $43.06 for delivery, $14.35 for the second payment, $12.22 for the third payment, and $17.03 for the fourth payment, alongside a government top-up of $5.00 scheduled for May 2025. The FSC plans to further supplement this with an additional $1.20 per tonne as the final cane payment on October 15, 2025, culminating the season’s total payout to $92.86 per tonne.
The government’s commitment to the sugar industry is clearly reflected in this additional top-up of $8.27 per tonne, raising the total amount that farmers will receive well above the guaranteed price of $85 per tonne. Brown stated that this record payout signifies the government’s ongoing support for the sugar sector and its dedication to ensuring the welfare of growers.
Meanwhile, in line with the recent challenges faced by farmers, including adverse weather conditions that have historically impacted production, the developments this season project a sense of optimism. Previous reports have noted decreasing payments for future seasons, such as the forecast of $71.41 per tonne for 2025; however, the current financial support indicates robust resilience within Fiji’s sugarcane farming community.
Overall, this sustained financial assistance not only helps to alleviate immediate concerns for these farmers but also reflects a broader trend of governmental efforts aimed at enhancing the stability and sustainability of Fiji’s agricultural sector. The success and dedication of the sugarcane growers, coupled with continued support from the government, bode well for a prosperous future in the industry.