Sugar Industry Minister Charan Jeath Singh has affirmed the government’s commitment to establishing a new sugar mill in Rakiraki, reported Fiji Times.
Speaking at a press conference last Friday, Singh announced plans to engage a Thai company for a feasibility study on the project, emphasizing transparency in the entire process.
“We already know the size of the mill that we want to have there,” he stated, pointing out that the previous mill in the region was crushing over 2500 tonnes per hour based on cane production from Rakiraki to Tavua. Singh anticipates a similar-sized mill, given the expected production levels.
Highlighting the transparent nature of the process, Singh mentioned discussions with various countries regarding mill setup, with the most suitable and reputable company identified being Thailand. The government intends to invite the Thai company to conduct a feasibility study, with plans for an open public tender following that.
While acknowledging a decrease in active farmers in Rakiraki from 300 to 125, Mr Singh expressed confidence in attracting both previous and new farmers to the industry. He noted the interest from potential farmers with idle land, citing improved sugarcane prices as a motivating factor.
Addressing inquiries about a potential increase in the payout of $91.38 per tonne for the upcoming season, Mr Singh refrained from confirming specific figures at this stage. However, he assured farmers that they could expect more in the upcoming season, signaling a positive outlook for the sugar industry in Rakiraki.
