Sugarcane farmers in Fiji will receive a special one-time payment of $5.00 per tonne by the end of May, fully funded by the government, Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) Board Chairman Nitya Reddy has confirmed. The payment, which will be made without any deductions, is intended to help farmers prepare for the 2025 harvesting season, reports The Fiji Times.
“This financial support will provide much-needed relief to growers as they plan and invest in the upcoming season,” Mr. Reddy said. “It shows the government’s ongoing commitment to standing behind our farmers when they need it most.”
In addition to the special payment, FSC has also announced that the fourth cane payment of $17.03 per tonne will be issued on Friday, 23 May 2025. With this payment, total earnings for the 2024 season will reach $86.66 per tonne—exceeding the government’s guaranteed price of $85.00.
“We understand the challenges farmers face and want to make sure they’re fairly compensated for their hard work,” Mr. Reddy said. “Going above the guaranteed price reflects our dedication to supporting the farming community.”
The fifth and final cane payment for the 2024 crop remains scheduled for October 2025.
FSC also shared the start dates for the 2025 crushing season:
Lautoka Mill: 11 June 2025
Labasa Mill: 17 June 2025
Rarawai Mill: 24 June 2025
