The Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry has hit back at critics over claims about the Labasa Mill closure, warning that running a sugar mill is far more complex than some media commentators suggest.
“Let me be clear — running a sugar mill is not backyard jaggery production,” Minister Charan Jeath Singh said.
“It is a sophisticated industrial operation producing sugar for both local and international markets. Decisions must be based on technical, economic, and safety considerations, not politics.”
Singh was responding to statements from Opposition figures and a former politician who implied the mill’s crush could end imminently.
He emphasised that the likely date of 24 November, cited by the Sugar Industry Tribunal, is not a final decision.
“Labasa Mill will be given seven days’ notice prior to the end of crush, after consultation with the Corporation and the Council,” he said.
The Minister said he personally visited the Northern Division last week with senior officials to meet growers, inspect fields, and address cane supply issues.
He noted that outside stoppages due to cane shortages totalled 754.4 hours, compared with 122.2 hours of mechanical downtime.
Singh added that nearly 90% of cane arriving burnt makes milling more challenging, as burnt cane must be blended with fresh cane to maintain sugar quality.
“Our team reviews the situation daily,” he said.
“The Government will continue to operate the mill only where it remains technically feasible and economically viable, in the best interests of farmers and the sugar industry.”
