The Korovuto Cane Farmers Co-operative Limited has received the harvester, valued at $383,000, to serve its members and other farmers in the Rarawai Mill area.
Co-operative member Amrit Singh says finding workers has become increasingly difficult, while harvesting costs continue to put pressure on farmers.
The Government contributed $150,000 towards the harvester through the Integrated Human Resource Development Programme.
Sugar Cane Growers Council CEO Bimal Dutt says labour shortages have become a serious issue for the sugar industry, making mechanisation increasingly important.
The new harvester has also created three jobs, including a full-time machine operator and two assistants.
The Korovuto Cane Farmers Co-operative was registered in November 2024 with 11 members and has since grown to 22 members.
Each member has contributed $1,500 in shares to the co-operative.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Industries, Commerce and Business Development Manoa Kamikamica says the project is a joint investment between the Government and farmers rather than simply a handout.
The co-operative now plans to acquire a cane truck and eventually other farming machinery, including a tractor.
