Cane harvesting 2020

Suva

From June 10, 2020, the sugar cane harvesting season will commence and a hive of activities will follow. From all accounts we can expect a bumper crop this season. This means more sugar for export. Thus an increase in our foreign exchange.

At this time, a shortage of cane cutters is always a problem. Therefore, it was thought prudent to introduce cane harvesting machines. However, due to COVID-19 pandemic, these machines have run into difficulties, as the operators are locked down in India.

And unless this is lifted they cannot travel to Fiji. Therefore, reliance on foreign technical personnel is an unacceptable situation. Train locals please.

My best wishes for 2020 sugar cane crushing season.