MORE cane has been crushed, more sugar produced and less breakdowns recorded at the Fiji Sugar Corporation’s three mills so far this year when compared with the same period in 2016, says Fiji Sugar Corporation CEO Graham Clark.

Speaking at a press conference at the FSC headquarters on Monday, he said he was very pleased with the outcome given the weather challenges the industry had faced this year.

“So far this season, Labasa has crushed 478,326 tonnes of cane, Lautoka 367,432 tonnes and Rarawai 395,705 tonnes,” he said.

“The three mills combined have therefore crushed 1,241,463 tonnes of cane.

“In total this is 17 per cent more than in the corresponding period last year.”

Mr Clark said milling efficiency had improved significantly over last year.

“Sugar manufactured to date totals 137,511 tonnes, which is 28,524 tonnes or 26 per cent more than in the same period in 2016.

“Sugar recovery is much improved. Tonnes cane per tonne sugar or TCTS to date is 9.03 compared to 9.7 in 2016.”

In terms of breakdowns and stoppages, Mr Clark said he was pleased with mill performance so far.

“Lautoka has settled well recording a 26 per cent reduction in breakdowns this season. Rarawai has enjoyed a steady run to date reflecting a 47 per cent drop in mill breakdowns.

“These improvements reflect greater management focus and are a credit to both factory teams.”