The Sugar Cane Growers Council (SCGC) has opposed a proposal by the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) to close tramline operations at Rarawai Mill in Tavua and Lautoka Mill from the 2026 crushing season.
The matter is now before the Sugar Industry Tribunal (SIT), with SCGC awaiting further direction.
In a statement, the Council said the proposal had raised serious concerns among cane growers, particularly those who rely on tramlines for transporting cane to mills.
“Tramlines have been part of the cane transport system for generations and continue to provide an important service, especially in areas where road access and transport options are limited,” the Council said.
SCGC stressed that any decision must not be based solely on operational efficiency or cost savings.
“The decision must be assessed from the grower’s perspective,” it said.
The Council warned that removing tramlines would force growers to depend entirely on lorry transport, increasing cartage costs and placing additional pressure on already limited transport capacity.
SCGC chief executive officer Mr Dutt said the impact on growers could be significant.
“For growers, this is not a simple operational adjustment. It directly affects cost, access, harvesting readiness, and delivery security,” he said.
He added that growers in remote and marginal areas would be the most affected, facing longer distances, higher transport charges and possible delays during peak crushing periods.
The Council has called for a full cost-benefit analysis to determine the true financial impact on growers, FSC, and the wider industry.
It is also seeking assurances that additional costs will not be transferred to growers and has urged proper consultation with those directly affected.
“The question is not whether tramlines are convenient. The real issue is what happens after they are closed, who carries the cost, and whether alternatives are practical and affordable,” Mr Dutt said.
SCGC has also suggested exploring ways to strengthen tramline usage, including transporting billet cane using cage bins to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
The Council said no final decision had been made and encouraged growers to remain informed and participate in upcoming consultations.
SCGC said it would continue to represent growers’ interests as the matter proceeds before the Tribunal.
