The Fiji Government is considering a proposal under which it would pay the lump sum lease premiums for sugarcane farms directly to landowners and take over the head lease, reports Fiji Sun.
Minister for Sugar Industry Charan Jeath Singh said the initiative aims to ensure that landowners receive their payments on time and to prevent disputes over delayed premiums. “Under this plan, the Government pays the premium upfront and then deals directly with the farmers,” he explained. “This approach will strengthen mutual respect between landowners and farmers.”
Labasa farmer Yogendra Ram said many farmers struggle to afford the high premiums required to renew leases. He noted that if the Government implemented the proposal, it would help retain more farmers in the sugar industry. “Premium costs are a big burden, especially when combined with other expenses in sugarcane cultivation. If the Government pays first and then manages repayments, it will be a great relief,” he said.
Representatives of the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), during consultations with growers in the Northern Division, urged farmers to lease only land that they actively cultivate. They cautioned that leaving land idle leads to higher premiums.
Wailevu sector farmer Mohammed Idris said that most cane farmers in the Northern Division are above 45 years of age and that expensive premiums discourage younger people from taking up sugarcane farming. “High premium rates have lowered the interest of the younger generation in this field,” he said.
Wainikoro/Daku sector farmer Akisi Vinaka welcomed the proposal, calling it a timely move. “Farmers face financial difficulties when paying premiums. The Government stepping in to assist is a big help,” she said.
A taskforce formed in September 2023 continues to address challenges related to land lease renewals and premium payments for both sugar and non-sugar agricultural land.
