Fiji Sugar Ministry Targets 200,000-tonne Annual Boost in Sugarcane Output

The Sugar Ministry expects sugarcane production to grow by 200,000 tonnes annually, driven by government support and the adoption of modern farming techniques, reported The Fiji Times.

Minister Charan Jeath Singh said the production forecast for this year stands at 1.5 million tonnes, marking a significant improvement from the past two years when output dropped to 1.3 million tonnes due to drought and other climate-related challenges.

“The forecast from the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) for this season is that we will likely produce 1.5 million tonnes of cane, which is a positive outcome,” Mr Singh said. “Things are improving.”

He added that continued government support would be crucial for sustaining the upward trend in production. “If the subsidies and assistance for farmers continue, I am confident we can increase cane production by 200,000 tonnes each year,” he said.

Mr Singh highlighted that the government had provided farming equipment to support cane growers. “Last year, we introduced cane planters capable of double-row planting, which was not previously practiced here. This means farmers can double their crop yield within the same area,” he explained.

He said the current yield averages 47 tonnes per hectare, but with double-row planting, the figure could potentially rise to 90 or even 100 tonnes per hectare.

“This is the standard in other parts of the world. It was not used here before, but now we’re bringing in those methods,” Mr Singh said, adding that higher yields would also boost farmers’ incomes.

He emphasized the importance of shifting away from traditional methods. “We’re teaching growers new farming techniques,” he said. “It’s time to move on from old practices and embrace modern farming.”