Twenty one farmers are now part of the New Farmers and Lease Premium Assistance Program.
Officiating at the event in Lautoka this week, Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh said the initiative underscored the Government’s dedication to ensuring land tenure is not a barrier to agricultural progress.
“Under the New Farmers and Lease Premium Assistance Program, we have provided critical financial support to 376 farmers during the 2023-2024 financial year,” Mr Singh said.
“These funds have enabled farmers to secure and access land for sugarcane farming, laying the foundation for a more stable and productive industry. Recognising the importance of this program, the Government has allocated $1million for the 2024-2025 financial year, ensuring more farmers benefit from this opportunity,” Mr Singh said.
He said 64 farmers had benefited from this year’s fiscal grant program, adding that the initiative was not just about supporting new farmers but also securing land tenure for existing farmers.
“Allowing them to expand their operations and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry.
“Secure land access is the cornerstone of any thriving agricultural sector, and our government remains committed to ensuring every cane farmer has the support needed to succeed.
“Through ongoing consultation with stakeholders and strategic policy measures, we are actively addressing land lease challenges to provide farmers with greater security and stability.”
Mr Singh said beyond land access, Government’s support for farmers extends to a range of initiatives aimed at boosting productivity and ensuring the viability of the sugar industry. Some of these include:
w Farmers incentive program under which farmers who increase their production receive a $5 per tonne incentive;
w Manual labour subsidy program provides $3 per tonne to assist farmers with harvesting costs; and
w Sugarcane development & farmers assistance program, which offers planting grants to encourage replanting and expansion.
