One of Massey Ferguson tractors and implements lined up at the Asco Motors head office in Nabua yesterday. Photo: JUSTINE MANNAN
By RANOBA BAOA
Government has marked yet another new step for the sugarcane industry by investing in new tractors that sugarcane farmers can utilise.
This is in a bid to implement its efforts to boost cane production come 2014 and beyond.
The new 3 Massey Ferguson Tractors accompanied with farming implements are valued at around $400,000.
Permanent Secretary for Sugar, Lieutenant-Colonel Manasa Vaniqi said the decision by Government to provide the tractors and implements followed frequent requests from cane growers.
“These were not readily available in times of need and if they were, the cost of hire would normally be placed very high beyond their means,” Lieutenant-Colonel Vaniqi said.
“These tractors and associated equipment will be utilised by cane growers at affordable rates to assist them in their preparation during the main planting months.”
Assistance for seasons
This is from the first season from March to May and planting window in October and November.
The tractors and implements will be operated by the Fiji Sugar Corporation with oversigh of the Ministry of Sugar.
“The actual details will be announced later early next yar well before March, the start of the main planting season.”
Tender process
The equipment was acquired following a tender process which Government carried out with three car companies in Fiji.
Asco Motors National Marketing manager, Elenoa Mule said they will continue supporting Government’s efforts in fostering development in the industries.
“We understand the challenges of Government and other stakeholder in the sugar industry,” Ms Mule said.
“We are also looking at assisting with specialised machinery in other areas within the Agriculture sector, namely rice, potato and other small and large scale farming.”