Fiji’s sugar industry is set for a major overhaul, with Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna announcing a series of reforms aimed at resolving long-standing challenges and improving productivity across the sector, FBC reported.
Addressing concerns raised by sugarcane farmers, Tunabuna acknowledged past difficulties, including unpaid wages, high transport costs, and operational inefficiencies that have burdened the sector for years.
He said the government is working closely with farmers, industry partners, and other stakeholders to resolve transport and infrastructure problems while reducing unnecessary expenses that have slowed production.
The minister also noted that not all areas are suitable for sugarcane cultivation due to soil salinity and steep land slopes. In such cases, farmers may be encouraged to consider alternative crops to ensure better returns.
“The problems of the past are well documented. We have data, studies, and analyses that show where the gaps are, and we are now focusing on solutions,” Tunabuna said.
He added that Fiji’s sugar industry supplies both domestic and international markets, making careful production planning essential. According to the minister, feasibility assessments and data-based planning are key to increasing output and improving value.
“We want to make the sugar industry efficient and sustainable. This includes exploring ways to diversify sugar products, such as producing higher-value white sugar, molasses, and even alternative energy from sugar by-products,” he said.
Tunabuna recently held discussions with Sitiveni Rabuka, marking his first strategic meeting with the Prime Minister since assuming responsibility for the sugar portfolio. He said the talks helped set the direction for a modernised and revitalised sugar sector, with a focus on rural development and national economic growth.
Looking ahead, the minister said the goal is to improve efficiency across both the sugar industry and the wider agricultural sector, in line with international standards.
No major grammatical errors were found; only minor refinements were made for consistency and readability.
