Sugarcane farmers in Sigatoka may soon get relief from transport challenges, with the government considering the establishment of a local cane juice extraction facility in the area, reports Fijivillage.
The plan is aimed at reducing the difficulties farmers face in transporting their produce to the Lautoka sugar mill, which has long affected their efficiency and earnings.
Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Charan Jeath Singh, shared the proposal while handing over the Burnt Cane Rehabilitation Grant to farmers in Sigatoka. He explained that cane juice could be extracted locally in Sigatoka and then sent to Lautoka for sugar production, a move expected to cut costs and save time.
Singh said the sugar industry, Fiji’s second-largest source of foreign revenue, must be strengthened through increased production. He stressed the need for supplying more green cane to mills, which would improve sugar quality and boost returns in overseas markets.
As part of the government’s broader revival plan, Sigatoka and Rakiraki have been identified as key growth areas. Singh noted that investments like the proposed facility would not only ease transport concerns but also raise farmer incomes and ensure the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry.
