In the latest parliamentary session, a pressing inquiry by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu about the operational state of the Lautoka sugar mill prompted a strong response from the Minister for Sugar, Charan Jeath Singh. With the Lautoka mill being the only functional mill for the 2025 crushing season, the situation has raised concerns about the continuity of the sugar industry’s operations in Fiji.
Seruiratu inquired about the government’s strategies to support industry stakeholders and ensure an uninterrupted crushing season. Minister Singh, acknowledging the question, assured Parliament that proactive steps are being taken to address the concerns of farmers and other stakeholders. He emphasized that the government has engaged with farmers and stakeholders, committing to extending the crushing season if necessary to guarantee continuous operations.
Singh highlighted recent interventions to fix significant mechanical failures at the Ba mill, including bringing in Australian experts to help with repairs. His assurances reflect a strong commitment to seeing the crushing season through successfully, even if it calls for operational extensions. Singh’s response also served as a rebuff to what he described as attempts at political point-scoring rather than a genuine concern for the sugar industry’s welfare.
Historical concerns about the mills, particularly their frequent breakdowns, have been voiced by former politician George Shiu Raj. He emphasized the need for reliable operations to avoid situations where farmers feel forced to bear the brunt of poor industry management. The government has invested millions in mill maintenance, but operational efficiency remains a pressing concern.
The broader context of the industry’s struggle includes calls from figures like Mahendra Chaudhry for accountability over the repeated failures and operational inefficiencies at the mills. The ongoing issues have led to significant disruptions for farmers, who experience prolonged waits and financial losses due to mechanical failures.
Despite these challenges, there remains a hopeful outlook driven by the government’s commitment to supporting the industry’s stakeholders and fostering improvements and investments in infrastructure. The resilience of stakeholders, combined with potential modernization efforts and efficient management, holds the promise of a more stable and prosperous future for Fiji’s sugar industry.