𝐅𝐢𝐣𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐠𝐚𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐒𝐎 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠

The Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Hon. Charan Jeath Singh, delivered his statement at the 66th Session of the International Sugar Organization (ISO) Council Meeting in San Jose, Costa Rica.

In his address, Minister Singh highlighted the sugar industry’s historical and economic importance in Fiji and the challenges it faces due to aging infrastructure, climate change, and emerging pests.

“As many of you may know, the sugar industry has been integral to Fiji’s history and society. For nearly 150 years, it has played a vital role in supporting our economy and sustaining rural communities. Like other sugar-producing countries, we are facing a range of challenges, which require fresh ideas and united action.” He said.

Minister Singh shared that Fiji currently produces approximately 1.5 million tonnes of sugarcane, resulting in 140,000 tonnes of sugar, but that aging infrastructure and delayed mill part replacements are hindering productivity. He also cited the Fall Armyworm as a newly emerged pest, posing a serious threat to Fiji’s sugarcane crops.

“The situation is further worsened by the intensifying climate crisis, which has caused a 20–30% decrease in yields due to unpredictable rainfall, devastating cyclones, and droughts. We urgently need research support to identify and manage this issue while safeguarding our yields,” said Minister Singh

Minister Hon. Charan Jeath Singh further emphasized the importance of modernization, digital transformation, and sustainability in revitalizing Fiji’s sugar sector.

“Fiji is eager to incorporate technology into our operations. We see it as the foundation of our future businesses. We are particularly enthusiastic about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), GIS, and drones for precision agriculture. These tools can boost productivity, promote climate-resilient farming practices, and attract our younger generation into the industry.” He said

The Minister extended an invitation to ISO member countries and global partners to support Fiji in its transformation journey, including collaboration on a proposed modern sugar factory, which could also enable cogeneration and ethanol production, providing both economic and environmental benefits.