The Sugar Cane Growers Council (SCGC) has held discussions with the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) over harvesting and cane cartage rates, as the sugar industry prepares for the 2026 crushing season amid rising fuel prices.
SCGC today hosted FCCC Chief Executive Officer Ms Senikavika Jiuta and her team at its headquarters in Lautoka, where the talks focused on the impact of increased fuel costs on mechanical harvesting and cane transportation operations.
SCGC chief executive Vimal Dutt said any review of rates must be carefully considered against the backdrop of current industry conditions, including forecast sugar prices and rising production costs.
He said growers were already under significant financial pressure and that further increases in operational costs would need to be assessed within the broader sustainability of the sector.
“The sustainability of the sugar industry depends on maintaining a fair balance between growers’ returns and the operational realities faced by harvesting and cartage service providers,” Dutt said.
“Any review of rates must be supported by sound data, current market conditions, and the industry’s ability to absorb additional costs. Our priority remains the long-term viability of both growers and service providers, who are equally important to the success of the industry.”
SCGC said both cane growers and service providers play a critical role in the harvesting and delivery chain, and maintaining that balance is essential for uninterrupted operations during the crushing season.
The Council also noted that the review process should take into account prevailing economic conditions, particularly as growers continue to face rising production expenses alongside a lower forecast cane price for the 2026 season.
SCGC welcomed FCCC’s engagement and said it appreciated the regulator’s commitment to conducting an evidence-based assessment of the issues raised.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to working with FCCC, cooperatives, cartage operators and other stakeholders to ensure a fair and balanced outcome that supports the long-term viability of Fiji’s sugar industry.
