The Sugar Cane Growers Council (SCGC) has acknowledged the announcement of the 2026 Forecast Cane Price of $57.40 per tonne, while urging farmers to remain focused on maximizing production and harvesting efficiency throughout the season.
In a statement posted on social media, the Council said growers may be disappointed with the lower forecast price compared to previous years, but stressed the importance of maintaining productivity to support both individual incomes and the wider sugar industry.
The Council welcomed Government’s decision to provide a $7.56 per tonne top-up, which has lifted the delivery payment to growers to $42 per tonne.
“The Council acknowledges and appreciates the Government’s intervention through the $7.56 per tonne top-up, which has increased the delivery cane payment to $42.00 per tonne. This support will provide immediate assistance to growers as they prepare for harvesting and crushing operations,” the statement said.
However, the Council warned that cane farmers are operating in one of the most challenging cost environments in recent years, with rising fuel prices significantly increasing the cost of harvesting, transportation, cultivation and general farm operations.
According to the Council, the real challenge facing growers is no longer just the cane price itself, but the widening gap between returns and the cost of producing cane.
“The issue is no longer just the cane price. The real challenge is the growing gap between the cane price and the cost of producing, harvesting and transporting cane. Unless that gap is addressed, grower sustainability will continue to come under pressure.”
The Council said it remains concerned that increasing fuel and harvesting costs are eroding grower returns and indicated that fuel subsidies could help ease the burden on farmers.
“Perhaps, indeed government support through subsidy on fuel usage will ease the harvesting and cartage operations and would be encouraging,” the statement noted.
The Council also reminded growers that the forecast price is only an estimate and that the final cane price will depend on several factors, including sugar production levels, market performance, exchange rates and overall industry efficiency during the season.
It called on all industry stakeholders to consider the cumulative financial pressures facing growers, particularly amid lower forecast prices, rising fuel costs and uncertainty surrounding transportation arrangements.
“At this time, unity and productivity across the industry are critical. Every tonne harvested contributes not only to individual grower income but also to the overall performance and sustainability of the sugar industry.”
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for growers and working with Government, the Fiji Sugar Corporation and other industry stakeholders to ensure farmers receive fair and sustainable returns for their efforts.
