Sugar industry faces many challenges with the fluctuating prices of fuel, transportation, fertilizer and gives an opportunity to think of alternate farming - President

President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere says the sugar industry is facing many challenges with the fluctuating prices of fuel, transportation, fertilizer, and these challenges are an opportunity to think of alternate farming.

Katonivere highlighted this while launching the Sugar Cane Growers Fund website and reopening their newly renovated Board Room in Lautoka.

Katonivere says he was informed that post-COVID has made the Sugar Cane Growers Fund realise that what the organisation needs is an inclusive and sustainable growth.

The President adds such growth led to a rapid paradigm shift for the Board and Management in their decision making and strategic planning.

He says the bottom line is the optimum use of the land and should not be limited to sugar cane farming in achieving supplementary income and food security through dalo, cassava, rice, vegetables and livestock farming.

President Katonivere also highlighted the allocation of $500,000 to support sugar farmers who wish to convert sugarcane leases to agriculture leases or plant other crops. He says that taking on this new approach will help make a difference without compromising on the environment and society.