Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu has expressed his disapproval of the Government’s handling of the sugar industry, especially the 2025 crushing season.
In a statement, Mr Seruiratu said farmers, lorry drivers and cane cutters were paying the heavy price of neglect, indecision and lack of empathy.
“The Opposition notes with grave concern that the Lautoka mill is the only operational mill during the remaining period of the 2025 crushing season, forcing all farmers from Sigatoka to Rakiraki to rely on a single facility,” he said.
“The Penang Mill remains closed, the Lautoka Mill, following recent breakdowns, is not crushing to full capacity, whilst the Rarawai Mill has left thousands of farmers and workers facing impairment. Instead of offering clear solutions, the Minister for Sugar has chosen to dismiss legitimate concerns raised in Parliament while farmers continue to shoulder the burden of uncertainty, reduced quotas and mounting financial losses.”
Mr Seruiratu also called on the Government to provide immediate solutions. “Every hour of delay costs farmers their income.
“Every day of Government silence deepens their suffering. Yet the Government continues to make promises without action and excuses instead of solutions.”
He added that the fire at Rarawai should not be dismissed as a mere accident.
“If sabotage is suspected, then security at all mills must be immediately reinforced to protect the industry from further disaster.”
