It is encouraging to know that the Government’s newly established Sugar Industry Committee is meeting sugarcane farmers in Rakiraki and Ba today.
We look forward to these consultations providing growers and industry stakeholders with an opportunity to raise concerns, exchange ideas and discuss practical solutions to improve the long-term viability and sustainability of our sugar industry.
The committee, chaired by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, is scheduled to meet farmers first at the George Shiu Raj Complex in Rakiraki before heading to the Rarawai Temple in Ba later in the day.
The Prime Minister’s presence reflects the seriousness of the challenges confronting the industry. It shows that the concerns being raised across the cane belt have reached the highest level of Government and deserve urgent attention.
The stand-off has created uncertainty for growers and anxiety for the many families and businesses that depend on the industry. Now this demands leadership, clear communication and practical solutions.
We hope today’s meetings provide the foundation for decisive action and will not be just an exercise in consultation without results.
In fact, it was encouraging to hear Ba farmer Arvind Singh call on those involved to leave politics aside and concentrate on saving an industry that remains vital to the country’s economy.
His message was powerful. This is not the time for political campaigning or partisan arguments. It is the time to focus on the challenges facing growers and to work collectively towards solutions.
He also made an important point about accountability. Farmers deserve direct engagement from decision-makers.
They want honest discussions about cane prices, milling operations and the realities affecting production.
Even when expectations cannot be met, people deserve clear explanations and transparency. Open communication builds confidence. Silence fuels frustration.
The committee, which includes Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad, Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka, former deputy prime minister Manoa Kamikamica, Sugar Minister Tomasi Tunabuna, Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu and Policing Minister Ioane Naivalurua, carries a major responsibility.
Its task extends beyond resolving the immediate dispute.
It must also help rebuild trust between growers, industry leaders and Government.
That trust will not be restored overnight.
It will require a willingness to listen, acknowledge differing views and act in the best interests of the industry.
It will also require all stakeholders to recognise that lasting solutions are built through cooperation.
The sugar industry has supported generations of Fijians and remains an important contributor to our economy and rural communities.
Its future will be shaped by honest dialogue, mutual respect and a shared commitment to finding common ground. That is the conversation we need today.
