As the 2025 crushing season gets underway, farmers in Nawaicoba, Nadi, are expressing optimism for a productive year.
The farmers are citing favorable weather conditions, timely support, and robust preparation.
Taslim Khan, a farmer from Gang 2 in Nawaicoba, says the sugarcane crop looks strong this year.
This year we expect more cane. Reason: the weather was good. And we did hard work in sugarcane. We seek advice from our farm advisor as well.
Another farmer, Nitin Singh, says while there is a shortage of labor, support from the government and the Fiji Sugar Corporation has made a difference.
We are very happy that we received the cane payment and the $5 top-up payment. We were able to cater for our labor work on the farm.
For laborer Rucibaki Cikaitoga, the season brings extra income to support her family.
I work at the farm so that I can help my husband. The cost of living is high, and I work on the farm so that we have another source of income.
Crushing at the Lautoka Mill commenced on Wednesday, with the Labasa Mill set to begin operations next Tuesday.
