Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu has accused former prime minister Mahendra Chaudhry of contributing to Fiji’s current sugar industry challenges by encouraging farmers to delay harvesting at the start of the crushing season.
In a statement posted on social media, the Minister said the Government had guaranteed a minimum cane price of $85 per tonne to encourage farmers to begin harvesting on time and ensure the crushing season started as scheduled.
She claimed many farmers responded to the call, recognising that delays would have consequences for the industry.
“Instead, Mahendra Chaudhry urged farmers to hold back their cane while demanding $110 per tonne. That political campaign encouraged delays at a critical time for Fiji’s sugar industry,” she said.
The Minister said the effects of those delays were now being felt across the sector.
“Labour shortages have become more severe, harvesting has fallen behind schedule, concerns over local sugar supplies have grown, and Fiji is now facing the prospect of importing sugar to meet domestic demand.”
She warned that importing sugar could result in higher prices for consumers.
“Imported sugar is unlikely to cost the same as locally produced sugar. If prices rise, it will not be politicians who feel the greatest burden. It will be ordinary Fijian families already struggling with the rising cost of living. It will be parents trying to stretch every dollar. It will be small businesses. It will be those who can least afford another increase in household expenses.”
The Minister said those who encouraged farmers to delay harvesting should accept responsibility for the consequences.
“Those who encouraged farmers to delay harvesting cannot now wash their hands of the consequences. If you tell farmers not to harvest and the crushing season falls behind, you must accept responsibility for the impact your words have had.”
She also urged political leaders not to use the sugar industry for political purposes.
“Our sugar industry should never become a political football. It supports thousands of farming families, sustains rural communities and contributes to our national economy. Leadership means putting farmers and the nation first, not chasing political headlines at the expense of ordinary Fijians.”
