The Sugar Cane Growers Council (SCGC) has raised concerns that the proposed increase in electricity tariffs will place additional financial pressure on cane growers, many of whom are already struggling to sustain daily farm operations.
In a statement, SCGC said that during the 2025 harvesting season, a significant number of growers were unable to achieve sustainable production targets due to adverse climatic conditions and ongoing uncertainties.
The Council said these challenges have directly affected growers’ incomes and their ability to meet essential operational costs.
SCGC noted that the cost of doing business in the agricultural sector continues to rise, leaving farming enterprises increasingly vulnerable.
“In light of these challenges, the Council strongly believes that a relief mechanism is necessary, and that the implementation of the proposed electricity tariff increase should not proceed,” the statement said.
The Council is calling for consideration of the financial realities faced by cane growers, warning that further cost increases could threaten the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry.
