A rehabilitation initiative has delivered timely relief to 58 sugarcane farmers across Fiji who lost their crops to fires ahead of the 2025 crushing season.
For the first time, pre-crush burnt cane incentives have been distributed across all sugarcane-growing regions, including Sigatoka, Lautoka, Ba, Tavua, Rakiraki, Labasa, and Seaqaqa.
The Ministry of Sugar allocated $101,725 to support affected farmers, following the destruction of nearly 5,000 tonnes of ripe sugarcane.
The assistance, in the form of direct cash payments and agricultural supplies, was coordinated by the Sugar Cane Growers Council (SCGC).
SCGC Chief Executive Vimal Dutt described the initiative as a major step forward for the industry.
“This is the first time such a rehabilitation program has been rolled out Fiji-wide. It has brought real hope and relief to those affected,” Mr Dutt said.
“We sincerely thank the Hon. Sugar Minister for his swift action and personal engagement with farmers,”
