The Government has assured sugarcane farmers of continued financial support and stability ahead of the 2026 crushing season while warning against what it described as misinformation being spread about the industry.
Permanent Secretary for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Dr Andrew Tukana made the comments while officially opening the first Sugar Cane Farmers consultations at the Rarawai Temple in Ba yesterday.
Dr Tukana said the Government remained committed to supporting growers and strengthening the long-term sustainability of Fiji’s sugar sector.
“As we prepare for the 2026 crushing season, the Government remains firmly committed to supporting all cane farmers and ensuring stability within the sugar industry,” he said.
He also called on farmers not to be influenced by political narratives surrounding the industry.
“I also urge our farmers not to be distracted by misinformation and unnecessary fear being spread by aspiring politicians and opposition voices. Our focus remains on working together with growers and industry stakeholders to ensure the long-term sustainability and success of Fiji’s sugar industry,” Dr Tukana said.
During the consultation, farmers were updated on the latest cane payments and Government support measures.
Dr Tukana revealed that the Fiji Sugar Corporation had released the fourth cane payment of $12.84 per tonne for the 2025 crop season.
He said this included FSC proceeds of $6.07 per tonne and a Government top-up support payment of $6.77 per tonne.
“This now brings the current cane payment for the 2025 crop to $80.88 per tonne,” he said.
He further announced that the Government had already committed to another top-up payment of $5.16 per tonne later this year, while FSC would also make its final proceeds payment to farmers.
The consultations are expected to continue around the country as industry stakeholders prepare for the upcoming harvesting and crushing season.
