SUGARCANE farmers in the Western Division have raised concerns over rising fuel prices, warning that escalating transport costs could severely affect cane deliveries to sugar mills this crushing season.
Speaking during the Sugar Industry Stakeholders consultation in Ba this week, farmer Jain Kumar said the increasing cost of diesel was placing heavy financial pressure on growers.
“This year it will be very difficult for farmers to deliver cane to the sugar mills,” Mr Kumar said.
“By the end of this month there could be another fuel increase, and the price of diesel may reach $4.50 per litre.
“At that price, growers will struggle to transport sugarcane to the Rarawai Mill.
“And for growers in Rakiraki, how will they deliver their cane?
“This is a major issue not only for Fiji but globally.”
Mr Kumar urged the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) to reconsider the closure of tramlines, saying rail transport remained a more affordable option for farmers.
“They should encourage more growers to use railway delivery, and the industry should provide more sugarcane cage bins so mechanical harvesters can use them,” he said.
“The mechanical harvesters are already operating near the railway lines and can assist us.”
Koronubu farmer Rajeshwar Singh echoed similar concerns and called on Government to introduce a fuel subsidy to support cane farmers and transport operators.
“If fuel prices are rising by a dollar per litre, then Government should provide a rebate of 80 cents per litre to trucks or farmers,” Mr Singh said.
“And it can be managed through FSC bowsers only.
“That way it will be easier for farmers and help them survive.”
Permanent secretary for Sugar Industry Dr Andrew Tukana acknowledged the concerns raised by growers and confirmed that discussions on fuel assistance were underway.
“We are working on something around fuel subsidies and hopefully we should have something for you very soon,” Dr Tukana said.
