A SUGARCANE mechanical harvester operator in Labasa will stop service after the operating price dropped yesterday.
The previous mechanical harvesting rate of $18.90 per tonne was reviewed and increased to $24.63 per tonne, a 30.3 per cent increase, effective from June 23, 2026.
However, it dropped to $20.52 per tonne last month.
The review was made following increased fuel prices and rising operating costs faced by harvesting operators.
Sugar Minister Tomasi Tunabuna said the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) should be approached for further information regarding the review of mechanical harvesting rates.
“The funds allocated to the ministry were intended to support transportation costs until the end of August and were not for reviewing mechanical harvesting rates,” he said.
Mr Tunabuna said the review and approval of harvesting charges remained the responsibility of the FCCC.
However, Bucaisau mechanical harvester operator Firoz Ali said operators could not continue working if they were forced back to the previous rate.
“We cannot afford to continue paying at this rate during harvesting. We are being paid $24.63, but in the end, we are only receiving $18.90, and nothing has been given from the FSC policy,” he said.
Mr Ali said this had created uncertainty among operators.
FCCC’s chief executive officer Senikavika Jiuta said the decrease was primarily driven by a decline in fuel prices, which are a significant component in both harvesting and cartage operations.
Ms Jiuta said the adjustment reflected the organisation’s commitment to maintaining fairness.
