Thousands of cane cutters, farm workers, and machine operators across Fiji will celebrate Diwali with lighter hearts and fuller wallets after the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), in partnership with the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, brought forward their scheduled payments.
Originally due on Wednesday, October 22, the payments will now be made on Monday, ensuring workers receive their wages ahead of the Diwali festival.
Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry Charan Jeath Singh said the decision followed requests from field workers and service providers who feared their regular payments would arrive too late for the celebrations.
“Many of our cane cutters, harvester operators, and lorry drivers work tirelessly under the sun,” Minister Singh said.
“We wanted to make sure they can enjoy Diwali with dignity, joy, and peace of mind.”
He added that the FSC will disburse $5 million in delivery payments to thousands of sugar industry workers, including tractor and transport operators.
“This is more than a payment—it’s a gesture of appreciation,” Mr Singh said.
“These workers are the backbone of our sugar industry, and their wellbeing remains a top priority for government.”
The early payout follows last week’s government announcement of a final cane payment for the 2024 season, which includes a government top-up of $8.27 per tonne for farmers.
