THE Labasa and Northern growers play a vital role when it comes to sugar cane, says Sugar Cane Growers Fund chairman Ahemed Bhamji.
Speaking at the recent Farmers’ Annual Open Day in Labasa, Mr Bhamji said government has continued to assist the sugar industry.
“From our $35million loan portfolio, $11.7million (33 per cent) is from North,” Mr Bhamji said.
“At macro level, we hold 65 per cent of the sugar cane loan market share and we have plan to increase to 75 per cent provided the industry grows to have over two million tonnes of sugar cane in short to medium term by 2028.
“This can only be achieved through commitment and political will of the authorities, genuine and honest collaboration among all the stakeholders of the industry, including the farmers, labourers and landowners.
“Agriculture, inclusive of sugar, has huge potential, and the government continues to assist in most of the sugar and non-sugar sectors.”
Mr Bhamji said, according to the Agriculture Survey Report 2020 had 83,395 total farmers.
” And this may not include all sugarcane farmers.
“If I mirror it down to 10,260 sugarcane farmers, 7000 of Fiji Crop and Livestock Members, 600 rice farmers, 500 copra and 2000 cash crop farmers, we get total of 20,360.
“Looking at the population, more work is to be done for the farmers within and outside of the sugar industry with respect and dignity to serve them.”
