SUGARCANE farmers can expect improved milling efficiencies come the 2017 harvesting and crushing season, says Sugar Ministry permanent secretary Yogesh Karan.

“I’m expecting better productivity in terms of mill efficiency and a reduction in mechanical breakdowns.

“I had to travel from Suva on many occasions this year to address concerns raised by canefarmers about breakdowns. Apart from the increased cost to the Fiji Sugar Corporation, breakdowns also put a lot of pressure on farmers because they still have to house and feed cutters until the mills are fixed and operational again.”

However, Mr Karan said the onus was also on farmers to ensure cane supply was consistent.

“The logistics of harvesting and transportation from farm to mill is also an area that needs considerable improvement and this is where the farmers have to ensure they maintain consistent supply.

“Intermittent supply also results in issues at the mills and leads to breakdowns as well. So in 2017, I will want to see improved communication between FSC and growers to ensure supply and demand goes hand in hand.”