Riya Mala 
Former Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad has raised concerns over delays in the third cane payment to sugarcane farmers.
He urged the government to ensure payments are made on time ahead of the upcoming milling season.
Prof Prasad says the delay is unfair to farmers who rely heavily on sugarcane for their livelihoods, especially in regions like Vanua Levu, Rakiraki, Lautoka, and Sigatoka.
Highlighting past achievements, he adds that over the last three years, sugarcane farmers received the highest prices in history, with government support provided through subsidies for fertilizer, weedicide, cane access roads, and new land for cultivation.
“The government should be ready to help sugarcane farmers at all times,” Prasad said, emphasizing that the sugarcane industry remains vital for the country and for many households.”
He blamed the delay on the Fiji Sugar Corporation and related institutions, stating that they should have prepared earlier if funds were insufficient.
Prof Prasad also acknowledged that external factors, such as the global fuel crisis and rising oil prices, are putting additional pressure on farmers’ incomes, particularly during the Easter festive season.
He urged the Agriculture Minister and other officials to ensure that payments are made promptly and in full.
Despite the setbacks, Professor Prasad reassured farmers that sugarcane farming remains important, the industry has been strengthened over the last three years and payments must be made promptly.
