While opposing the 2026/2027 National Budget in Parliament, Pillay says although the Government's fuel subsidy is welcomed, it does not fully cover farmers' costs, particularly for those in remote areas.
He says after paying for harvesting, farm inputs, land preparation and lease costs, farmers are left with very little before they even pay to transport their cane to the mills.
Pillay says once transport costs are added, many farmers are left with little or no profit.
Insert:Pillay on sugarcane famers
He says this season has been made even more difficult by lower cane production, caused by factors such as bad weather and poor infrastructure.
He is calling on the Government to review the guaranteed cane price and provide greater support for farmers.
Pillay also called for a special audit of the Fiji Sugar Corporation, claiming there is a need for greater accountability and lower operating costs.
