The productivity of cane cutters has declined in the last few years, stated Reshmi Kumari, Director of Planning, Policy, and Research at the Ministry of Sugar Industry. Speaking at the 8th International Association of Professionals in Sugar & Integrated Technologies Conference in Vietnam, Kumari shared that the average output of each cane cutter has nearly halved over the past 15 years, reported FBC News.
In 2009, cane cutters were averaging 233 tons per season, but by 2021, this figure had dropped to 118 tons. Kumari explained that this decrease is due to several factors, including frequent mill stoppages and challenges with the workforce.
Kumari also discussed efforts to increase the use of machinery in cane farming. She mentioned that 142 tractor service providers are now registered with the Fiji Sugar Corporation Limited to assist with essential tasks such as ploughing, harrowing, spraying, and tilling. The Ministry will closely track the progress of this initiative in the coming years.
From 2017 to 2023, the Ministry has invested approximately $3.5 million in the Farm Mechanization program, purchasing 52 mechanical harvesters, 20 tractors, 12 planters, and 16 fertilizer applicators. The Ministry plans to continue supporting these initiatives in the 2024-2025 budget and explore new mechanical harvesting options for farmers who still rely on manual methods.
