National Farmers Union general secretary Mahendra Chaudhry claims canegrowers in the Northern Division say it will be uneconomical for them to continue in the industry if Government does not maintain its $85 per tonne guaranteed price this season.
This, according to the former prime minister in a letter to Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) chief executive Bhan Pratap Singh.
Mr Chaudhry wrote to Mr Singh after 11 consultation meetings in the Daku, Wainikoro, Buceisau, Seaqaqa and Vunimoli sectors.
“Canegrowers are anxious to know whether the guaranteed minimum price of $85 per tonne of cane will be maintained for their 2021 crop,” Mr Chaudhry said.
“This, of course, is a decision for the Government to take. But the farmers have urged that it be extended as it would not be economical for them to continue farming on a price of around $55- $60 per tonne in the face of escalating production, harvesting and delivery costs.”
Government made a commitment to provide a guaranteed cane price of $85 per tonne for the 2018, 2019 and 2020 seasons.
“It is critical that a decision in the matter is reached before the commencement of the crush to instil confidence in the growers.”
Questions sent to Mr Singh, Prime Minister and Sugar Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and Sugar Ministry permanent secretary Yogesh Karan on the comments made by Mr Chaudhry remain unanswered.
