The Sugar Cane Growers Council is considering a pilot programme to engage overseas workers as part of efforts to address ongoing labour shortages affecting Fiji’s sugar industry.
The proposal was discussed during a meeting yesterday between SCGC officials and the Minister for Immigration, Hon. Viliame Naupoto, where both parties explored practical solutions to the growing shortage of farm workers, particularly for harvesting and other labour-intensive farm operations.
SCGC chief executive Vimal Dutt said labour availability remained one of the biggest challenges facing cane growers across the country.
“Labour availability remains one of the most significant challenges facing our cane growers today. The Council will continue to work collaboratively with government and industry stakeholders to identify sustainable solutions that support growers and ensure the future growth of Fiji’s sugar industry.”
The Council said discussions focused on the possibility of engaging foreign workers in areas where growers have struggled to secure sufficient local labour. The meeting also examined sourcing requirements, employer obligations and immigration processes involved in recruiting overseas workers for the agricultural sector.
Concerns relating to work visa applications for cane harvester operators from India were also raised during the meeting. SCGC said it sought clarification on processing requirements and timelines after concerns were expressed by growers and cooperatives that have already engaged overseas operators.
The Council acknowledged the guidance provided by the Minister and officials from the Ministry of Immigration on visa processing requirements and the legal pathways available for employers seeking to recruit foreign workers.
As part of its next steps, SCGC plans to implement a pilot programme involving selected growers from different districts and farming backgrounds to assess the practicality and economic viability of engaging foreign workers before any wider rollout.
Dutt said the pilot would allow stakeholders to evaluate operational outcomes and identify challenges before developing a model that could potentially be expanded across the sugar belt.
“We appreciate the opportunity to discuss both the broader labour requirements of the sugar industry and the visa processing matters affecting cane harvester operators engaged by growers. The guidance provided by the Hon. Minister and the Ministry of Immigration will assist the Council and growers in navigating the appropriate processes and exploring practical solutions to meet the industry’s workforce needs.”
The Council said addressing labour shortages was critical to improving cane productivity, harvesting efficiency and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Fiji’s sugar industry. It reaffirmed its commitment to working with government agencies, growers and industry stakeholders to develop practical labour solutions for the sector.
