Cane growers happy with EU deal decision by Government

A locomotive carrying sugarcane to the Lautoka Mill for processing. Photo: WAISEA NASOKIA

Sugarcane growers in Fiji have welcomed Government’s decision for provisional application of the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union.
The Economic Partnership Agreement provides for free access into the European Union.
Fiji’s main exports to the EU are raw cane sugar, other agricultural products and fish.
Sugar Cane Growers Council chief executive, Sundresh Chetty, said the move will help maintain favourable market access on sugar exports.
“On behalf of the growers, we would like to show our gratitude towards the government for this,” Mr Chetty said.
“This is a very positive decision to maintain confidence levels of the growers in the sugar industry and its sustainability.
“This will mean that we will continue to trade with the European Union with duty free access.”
Mr Chetty said with the current industry reforms in place by the government and stakeholders support, there is no doubt growing confidence in the sugar industry now.
“We are optimistic that growers will invest more in their farms as their shares of proceeds grow bigger,” he said.
He said this has been evident in the increased cane payment to the farmers over the past two years.
“We would like to see this agreement is strengthened for the future of the industry,” he said.
“I would like to urge to the farmers to be composed and have faith in the industry given the current reforms taking place for sustainability,” Mr Chetty said.
He also urged farmers to take advantage of the favourable weather conditions to get as much cane to the mills as possible.
Mr Chetty said growers are optimistic about the 2014 harvesting season and if there were issues, he is available to look into these and support in any way possible.
Feedback: rachnal@fijisun.com.fj