The Fiji Cane Lorry Association and sugarcane farmers are grappling with rising operational costs that threaten the sustainability of the sugar industry, says association president Atish Kumar.
Speaking during the Sugar Industry Stakeholders consultation in Ba this week, he said both lorry operators and farmers were struggling to remain viable amid escalating expenses.
He said the sharp increase in the cost of spare parts, vehicle maintenance, truck fitness compliance and fuel had placed heavy financial pressure on operators already working under difficult conditions.
“These costs have placed huge financial pressure on both lorry operators and farmers.”
In its submission, the association called on Government to provide targeted assistance to help ease the burden on the industry.
The requests included fuel subsidies for lorry operators and farmers, assistance with purchasing vehicle parts and farming equipment, and measures to reduce growing operational expenses.
Mr Kumar also raised concerns about transportation costs for cane deliveries, particularly for growers transporting cane over long distances.
“We understand that sugarcane transportation rates from Rakiraki to Ba are regulated by the FCCC and paid by the Fiji Sugar Corporation,” he said.
“We also seek intervention from the Sugar Ministry for sugar transportation costs from Ba to Lautoka to be regulated by the FCCC as well.”
The consultation brought together farmers, industry stakeholders and Government officials to discuss ongoing challenges facing the sugar sector ahead of the crushing season.
