The Chair of the International Sugar Organisation and Fijian Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama today briefed more than 100 delegates of the 43rd Session of the International Sugar Council on the comprehensive series of reforms undertaken by government in the sugar industry.
CAPTION: PM Bainimarama. File Photo.
Prime Minister Bainimarama said that government was sparing no effort to revitalise Fiji’s sugar industry as it remained a major economic driver, providing livelihoods for 200,000 Fijians (more than 20 percent of Fiji’s population).
“Land that had fallen fallow is being replanted, more long term leases are being renewed, confidence is growing, stability is returning and a revitalised industry is beginning to take root,” PM Bainimarama said.
“Two weeks ago, I was able to announce a record cane payment to our farmers, as well as a high price secured for next year’s crop.
The head of government also added that Fiji is on the right path with long term goals to increase production and diversify the sugar industry –adding value to the crop in order to limit exposure to the uncertainty of price fluctuations for raw sugar.
“Government’s commitment to this industry is absolute and unwavering – to make sugar viable and prosperous again – to reverse the decline in production experienced in Fiji over the last couple of decades,” PM Bainimarama said.
The five day meeting officially opened this morning at the Sofitel Resort in Denarau, Nadi.
MINFO