14 December, 2025, 8:35 am Central - 25°C Rain

New sugar mill plans spark hope for jobs and rural development in Fiji

New sugar mill plans spark hope for jobs and rural development in Fiji

By Nilufa Buksh
29/08/2025
Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry Minister, Charan Jeath Singh

New modern sugar mill plans were discussed at the Centennial Congress of the International Society of Sugarcane Technologists (ISSCT) to transform Fiji’s sugar industry, creating more employment opportunities in rural areas.

The modern sugar mills will aim to lower production costs, increase sugar recovery rates, and drive diversification into ethanol, electricity cogeneration, bio-fertilizers through modern, and energy-efficient technologies.

During the meeting, Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry Minister, Charan Jeath Singh says the governemnt is committed to reviving Fiji’s sugar industry by establishing a modern, cost-efficient mill ensuring sustainability with global partners and better decision making.

He also adds that the project forms a key part of Fiji’s Sugar Industry Modernisation Programme, adding that the modern mill will not only improve efficiency but also open up opportunities, allowing more jobs and strengthen countries support.

Meanwhile, Singh also met with leading international engineering groups including Uttam Group (India), ULKA Industries, and Five Group, which are among the top engineering firms in sugar mill technology and have been instrumental in modernising mills across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

The plan brings renewed hope for cane farmers and rural families, as Fiji aligns with global best practices to rebuild confidence in sugar, strengthen exports, and secure long-term sustainability in an industry that has faced years of uncertainty.

FEATURE NEWS
Low chance of TD03F forming into Tropical Cyclone within 24 to 48 hours
The potential for Tropical Disturbance TD03F to develop into a Tropical Cyclone within the next 24 to 48 hours is low.The Nadi Weather Office says the...
18 hours ago
LATEST NEWS
NGO Coalition on Human Rights raises serious concerns over Fiji’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission process
The NGO Coalition on Human Rights (NGOCHR) is concerned at the current processes and outcomes unfolding under Fiji’s Truth and Reconciliation ...
14 hours ago

People in Northern Division prepare as tropical disturbance nears Fiji
People in the Northern Division are preparing as a tropical disturbance located near the Solomon Islands continues to move closer to Fiji and is ...
16 hours ago

‘Zootopia 2’ crosses US$1 billion globally
“Zootopia 2” is racing past US$1 billion globally after 17 days of release, becoming the fastest PG film to ever cross the coveted box office ...
17 hours ago

Canada reaffirms Pacific commitment with launch of Fiji Assistive Technology Hub
The Government of Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to the Pacific with the launch of Fiji’s National Assistive Technology Hub in Suva.The ...
17 hours ago

SODELPA expresses shock after FICAC charge Tanya Waqanika
The Social Democratic Liberal Party says they are shocked that one of their former party members has been charged by FICAC for allegedly opposing ...
18 hours ago



Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations

CFL radio frequencies
IN DEPTH
Sonia Shanaaz says silent treatment hurts as she waits for assistance for her daughter with cerebral palsy
Sonia Shanaaz, the mother of 10-year-old Aarna who was born with cerebral palsy, says silent treatment hurts after she reached out to the ...
2 days ago

I do not support police officers being charged on public opinions and without evidence - COMPOL
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu says he will stand by his officers, and he does not support any officer being charged based on public opinion ...
2 days ago

Dubai 7s 2025
The Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s side are working on their fitness as they prepare for the start of the 2025/2026 World 7s Series this ...
6 days ago

TOP