Opposition MP Viam Pillay has claimed that the Fiji Sugar Corporation’s decision to take farmers’ concerns directly to the Ministry of Sugar came only after he publicly raised issues affecting cane growers.
Responding to a recent FSC statement, Mr Pillay said it was encouraging to see the FSC Board and management travel to Suva to present farmers’ concerns, but questioned why action had not been taken earlier.
“It is a welcome development to see the FSC Board and management finally travel to Suva to present the urgent realities of our cane farmers to the Ministry of Sugar,” he said.
“However, let us be clear: this action only happened after I raised these issues on behalf of our families.”
Mr Pillay argued that FSC leaders were aware of the challenges facing growers well before the forecast cane price was announced.
“The FSC Board was fully aware of the coming crisis and kept quiet. Why did they not lobby for a better forecast price before it was announced? Who are they trying to fool?”
He was particularly critical of FSC chairman Nitya Reddy and the corporation’s handling of issues affecting farmers.
“The FSC Board has failed our farmers in too many areas, and the Chair, Nitya Reddy, is clearly not fit for this role.”
“You cannot play with the hearts and minds of poor farmers, saying one thing while doing another. The trust is gone.”
Mr Pillay said the delivery payment remained the most important issue for cane growers, arguing that current payments did not reflect the rising costs of harvesting and transportation.
“Above all else, the delivery price is paramount. It is the single most critical factor for every farmer’s survival.”
“As it stands, the current payment structure ensures that every farmer will be operating at a loss.”
He said many growers would be forced to borrow money simply to begin harvesting this season.
“We remember the promise of $110 per tonne made prior to the 2022 elections.”
Mr Pillay called on the Sugar Industry Tribunal and FSC to urgently explain how the recently announced guaranteed minimum cane price of $85 per tonne would affect delivery payments.
“The forecast price must be adjusted to reflect this.”
He also called for fuel rebates for lorry operators and standardised rates for mechanical harvesters.
“I am calling on these authorities to announce a new forecast, a new delivery payment, and these specific relief measures immediately.”
Despite his criticism, Mr Pillay urged growers not to boycott the 2026 harvest.
“I urge our farmers: do not boycott. A boycott will only hurt us in the long run.”
“We must move forward, but we do so only when the financial reality is made clear.”
Mr Pillay said farmers expected FSC to provide practical support and clarity before the start of the crushing season.
“We expect the FSC to stop the games, fix the delivery and forecast prices, and provide the tangible support that is required to sustain this season.”
