There have been 20-30% loss of cane production in Fiji over the years due to climate change such as flooding, salt-water intrusion, soil erosion, and drought.
This has been highlighted by the Director of Planning, Policy, and Research for the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry Reshmi Kumari during the 3rd International Conference and Exhibition on “Sustainability: Challenges & Opportunities in Global Sugar Industry” at the Vasantdada Sugar Institute in Pune, India.
While presenting Fiji’s perspective on climate change and sugarcane production, she also highlighted Fiji's need for advanced research and technology adoption to bolster the sugar industry.
Kumari also expressed optimism about leveraging shared technologies from other nations, emphasising the potential for maximizing profits by increasing yield and reducing per-unit costs.
The conference, attended by over 2,500 participants from 28 countries, provided a platform for Kumari to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by Fiji and other nations in the sugar industry where she also emphasised the importance of international collaboration in addressing common issues such as climate change, labour shortages, and high production costs.
Countries with advanced sugar industries also showcased innovative technologies, bio-technologies including computer-based Artificial Intelligence, simulation technologies such as remote sensing, drones and data analytical tools - Geographical Information Systems which aims to enhance decision-making, mitigate labour scarcity, reduce cultivation costs, and minimize the impact of climate change.
The conference also featured a diverse exhibition with 250 stalls, where businesses, scientists, service providers, and researchers displayed cutting-edge technologies spanning from farm to sugar factory.
