The Sugar Cane Growers Fund (SCGF) has welcomed additional Government assistance through the recently announced $5million fuel subsidy for the sugar industry.
Chief executive officer Raj Sharma said the past few weeks had been challenging as stakeholders and Government worked together to find practical solutions to support growers and sustain the industry.
“Government has its own fiscal constraints, yet it has once again demonstrated its commitment to the sugar industry,” he said.
“SCGF has also stepped in where possible to provide interim financial support, directly or indirectly, to growers or the industry during this difficult harvesting period.”
Mr Sharma said global sugar prices had fallen significantly and were now almost half of previous levels, while fuel and operating costs remained high.
“Despite these challenges, Government has maintained a guaranteed cane price of $85 per tonne, a level of support not available to many other agricultural sectors.”
He said during consultations held by the Sugar Ministry across cane belt areas, growers consistently requested two key measures — assurance of the guaranteed cane price and assistance with rising fuel costs affecting harvesting and transportation.
“We acknowledge Government’s response through this fuel subsidy, which will provide much-needed relief to growers and contractors.”
Mr Sharma said the industry continued to face several structural challenges and reform initiatives.
“SCGF has actively participated in these discussions, proactively taken actions for the growers and the industry, including making submissions on issues such as land leases and industry sustainability.”
The SCGF extended its appreciation to the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, the Ministry of Finance, and all industry stakeholders for responding to concerns raised by growers and participants in the sector.
