Crushing Season Extended

Sugar Cane Growers Council (SCGC) chief executive officer, Vimal Dutt has confirmed that the termination of the Labasa mill’s crushing season has been extended.

He said after their consultation with the Fiji Sugar Corporation and Sugar Industry Tribunal last week it was decided and announced that the Labasa mill would close on November 28. “During the discussion we also said if there will be a need for extension then it shall be considered,” Mr Dutt said.

“Hence, based on our inspection we have decided to extend it to November 30.”

He is advising farmers to make use of the good weather conditions and harvest the leftover cane.

“I am aware that FSC is assisting the farmers in various ways such as in transportation and harvesting of cane so please let us work together,” he said.

“Let us not delay anymore or wait for November 30.”

Meanwhile, the Vanua Levu Cane Harvesters’ Association president Aiyub Khan said this was good news.

“Thank you FSC and SCGC for the consideration, at least our mechanical harvester operators can work to assist the farmers whose cane field is yet to be harvested,” Mr Khan said.

“Yes it is true a considerable amount of cane is left on the ground to be harvested.”

He said with good weather and such kind of assistance, farmers would be able to meet the target set by FSC.

In Vanua Levu, there are 26 harvester cooperatives who have received a subsidiary from the Government to buy the machine.

Six individuals who are mostly businessmen have bought harvesters at around the cost of $350,000 from India for their own farm use.

Fiji Sugar Corporation’s Labasa mill has five harvesters.

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