SUGAR Minister Charan Jeath Singh has also called on the International Sugar Organization to consider joining Fiji in establishing a modern sugar factory in the country.
Speaking at the same ISO council meeting in Costa Rica, he said the project would not only expand Fiji’s production capacity, but also create opportunities for co-generation and ethanol production, generating new revenue streams and helping to reduce Fiji’s carbon footprint.
He added that Fiji was eager to incorporate technology into the operations of the Fiji Sugar Corporation.
“We are particularly enthusiastic about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and geographic information systems (GIS) to boost productivity, promote climate-resilient farming practices, and engage the younger generation in the sugarcane industry,” Mr Singh said.
“Additionally, we are excited about using drones for precision agriculture, which we believe will significantly cut costs and improve crop management.
“Together, I firmly believe we can overcome these challenges and pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for our sugar sector.
“With your support, we are confident that we can transform our industry into one that is technologically advanced, climate-resilient, and economically viable — one that will continue to be a vital contributor to our nation’s well-being.”