Suva: Opposition MP Viam Pillay has voiced concern in Parliament over the future of the sugar industry in Fiji, warning that more than 1,000 sugarcane farm leases are due to expire by 2030, The Fiji Times reported.
Discussing the issue during the debate on the President’s Address, Pillay said renewing these leases is necessary to maintain stability in sugarcane cultivation and production. He said the country’s interest lies in ensuring that the leases are extended so farmers can continue growing cane without uncertainty.
The MP also challenged claims that the sugar sector is improving. According to him, sugar output has continued to fall in recent seasons. He pointed to the fact that about 93,000 tonnes of cane remained unharvested, which he said shows serious problems in the system.
Pillay further criticised what he described as limited support for farmers. He said that while cane growers are facing difficulties, the government appears to be focusing more on its own priorities. He also referred to issues such as penalties imposed on burnt cane.
He added that rising living costs, along with higher production and harvesting expenses, are putting additional pressure on farmers.
The opposition MP also raised questions about the functioning of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Sugar, stating that the committee has not yet conducted consultations.
Pillay called on Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who heads the committee, to inform Parliament why no consultations have taken place so far. He said farmers and other stakeholders had been waiting for a chance to share their views on the future of the industry.
