farmers in Ba have been urged to continue cane farming for the long-term sustainability of the sector.
Speaking at the Prime Minister’s Sugar Cane Farmers Rarawai Mill Award 2025 last week, Minister for Sugar Tomasi Tunabuna acknowledged the resilience and commitment of farmers around the country.
Mr Tunabuna said the industry had undergone many changes over the years, however, farmers still took pride in continuing sugarcane farming.
“You have been supporting the livelihoods of many including cane cutters, lorry drivers, cane access road contractors, shops, banks, and others from Rakiraki, Tavua, and Ba areas and we are proud of your immense contribution to the economy.”
Meanwhile, Sugar Cane Growers Fund chairman Marika Luveniyali said they would continue to pursue the transformation of the institution, including the proposed review of the SCGF Act, currently before the ministry.
“This review aims to strengthen governance, accountability, sustainability, and expansion opportunities within Fiji’s financial ecosystem,” he said.
Mr Luveniyali said at present, the fund serves 4032 growers from a base of more than 10,000 growers’ industry-wide:
– 927 growers from the Lautoka mill;
– 1827 growers from the Rarawai mill; and
– 1278 growers from the Labasa mill.
As of April 2026, total grower loans stand at $36.4 million:
– Lautoka: $8.2m;
– Rarawai: $14.23m; and
– Labasa: $13.98m.
