Thirty interested parties have responded to the recent tender invitation to create a new sugar mill in Rakiraki, as announced by Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh. The responses include a diverse range of proposals, with some companies offering partial funding while others propose to supply the mill without financial backing.
A notable contender among these proposals is a Chinese company that aims to introduce state-of-the-art technology and is prepared to provide the necessary funding to make this ambitious project a reality. Minister Singh has indicated plans to meet with this company within the week to finalize arrangements for moving forward.
While the mill is not expected to be operational before the upcoming elections, Singh reassured that the foundational groundwork will commence soon. The new facility is set to diversify its production activities by generating not only raw sugar and refined sugar but also ethanol and power, which will maximize profits and help to reduce reliance on imported refined sugar.
The development of the Rakiraki sugar mill is part of a comprehensive strategy within Fiji’s sugar industry to modernize operations and improve efficiency, particularly in light of recent years marked by declining production figures. Previous discussions have highlighted the necessity for substantial investment, with estimates suggesting that constructing a new mill could cost around $250 million. Alternatives, including the option of acquiring a second-hand mill from China, have also been proposed as a more cost-effective measure.
This initiative aims to rejuvenate Fiji’s sugar sector, generate employment opportunities, and stimulate local economies, fostering a sustainable agricultural landscape for the future. Engagements with international partners underscore a shared commitment to modernization and productivity enhancements, suggesting a bright outlook for the sugar industry’s future in Fiji.