Sugarcane growers in the Lovu area of Lautoka have reported serious termite infestations damaging their crops, warning that the pest is already causing losses and could spread further if urgent action is not taken, FBC reported.
The issue was brought to the attention of Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry Inosi Kuridrani during his meeting with growers after sugar industry responsibilities were transferred to the Agriculture Ministry.
Farmers told the Assistant Minister that termite attacks have already led to visible crop damage in some areas. They said there is currently no effective chemical treatment available to control the pest, making it difficult to protect standing crops.
Kuridrani assured the farmers that Biosecurity officials would be sent to inspect the affected areas and assess the extent of the infestation. He said authorities would examine possible measures to control the spread and reduce further losses.
Growers also expressed concern over delays in compensation for unharvested cane, stating that the Sugarcane Tribunal has been slow in processing claims for crops lost due to circumstances beyond their control.
In addition, farmers highlighted other challenges facing the sector, including expiring land leases, poor drainage systems, lack of proper farm access roads, rising harvesting and transportation costs, and high farm development expenses. They also pointed to mill inefficiencies that cause delays in crushing and raised concerns about the current payment structure.
Calling for urgent intervention, farmers urged the government to act quickly to contain the termite problem and address the broader issues affecting the industry as efforts continue to stabilise sugar production.
