A LARGE number of sugarcane farmers refusing to harvest their crops would have serious consequences for sugar production, rural communities and the wider economy, Sugar Minister Tomasi Tunabuna says.
Mr Tunabuna said any disruption to harvesting during the crushing season would reduce the volume of cane delivered to mills and affect the industry’s overall output.
“If they do not harvest, then it will definitely affect the amount of cane going into the mills,” he said.
His comments come amid concerns that rising fuel prices could discourage some farmers from harvesting cane because of higher operating costs.
Mr Tunabuna said decisions affecting sugar production were complex and required careful consideration because of the industry’s contribution to foreign exchange earnings and the livelihoods it supported.
“We have to consider the overall impact, including foreign earnings and the families that would be affected if there were disruptions to sugarcane processing.”
He warned that towns heavily dependent on the sugar industry could also feel the effects of reduced harvesting and milling activity.
“It would have a major impact on the economy, especially in towns that depend on sugarcane. For example, Labasa is the centre of business in the North and depends heavily on sugarcane.”
Mr Tunabuna said Government was already assisting farmers and examining measures to help offset increasing fuel costs affecting the sector.
The minister said the sugar industry remained a key pillar of the economy, supporting thousands of families and businesses. Any disruption to harvesting or milling operations, he said, would likely have a ripple effect throughout rural communities during the crushing season.
