FINANCE Minister Esrom Immanuel has challenged the sugar industry to look beyond State assistance and embrace innovation as the sector navigates a turbulent economic landscape.
Speaking at the launch of the Sugar Cane Growers Fund’s new digital management system, chatbot, and GEDSI framework yesterday, Mr Immanuel urged stakeholders to rethink traditional operating models.
Mr Immanuel said the industry faced significant hurdles this year because of falling global sugar prices and escalating fuel costs that began in March.
To cushion the blow, the Coalition Government has stepped in with a guaranteed cane price of $85 per tonne, alongside targeted grants and fuel subsidies.
Mr Immanuel said modernisation was no longer optional if the sector was to survive as a lifeline for rural families.
“This event is more than a launch of a new initiative, it is a demonstration of a farm’s commitment to improving the way it serves our sugarcane growers and to ensuring that its services remain relevant, accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the changing needs of its members,” he said.
The new digital tools are designed to streamline operations, enhance document retrieval, and improve grower engagement through a smart chatbot interface.
