Sugar industry potential
Fiji’s sugar industry has long been a key pillar of our economy, yet much of its potential remains untapped. While we continue to export large quantities of raw sugar, the time has come to focus on value-added products such as refined sugar, specialty sugars, and ethanol production to enhance economic returns. Countries like Brazil, Thailand, and Mauritius have successfully transitioned to processing their sugar before export, significantly increasing their earnings. Studies in global trade and agricultural economics confirm that countries exporting processed goods earn more, create jobs, and stabilise their industries against price fluctuations. For context, in 2022, sugar accounted for around 10 percent of Fiji’s total exports (approximately $US104million). However, the price of raw sugar continues to fluctuate, exposing Fiji’s economy to global market instability. The Government of Fiji, through the Fiji Sugar Corporation and Sugar Cane Growers Council, has recognised the need for reform in the sector, aiming to improve productivity, quality, and diversification. The Sugarcane Industry Strategic Action Plan (SISAP) outlines goals to increase value-added production by investing in modern processing technologies. By shifting to sugar refining, specialty sugar production, and ethanol manufacturing, Fiji can create a more resilient and profitable industry. This will benefit farmers, businesses, and the nation by providing higher and more stable earnings, as well as new job opportunities. Final Verdict: Fiji must transition from exporting raw sugar to producing high-value sugar products to fully capitalise on its industry’s potential. This shift will increase export earnings, create employment, stabilise prices, and drive long-term economic growth. The resources are here —the next step is the vision and action needed to unlock the full potential of our sugar industry. Avinesh Kartik Naidu, Nadi
Decree 51?
Can Fiji’s most esteemed legal minds, including King’s Counsel from Australia and New Zealand, come together to determine the legality of Decree 51 of 2011? This decree, passed by what many consider an unconstitutional government, effectively authorised the diversion of FNPF members’ hard-earned funds. If this decree was enacted unlawfully, what legal recourse do FNPF members have? Can justice be served, and can these funds be rightfully restored to their owners? This issue strikes at the heart of justice, governance, and the protection of ordinary citizens’ rights. Your insights and legal expertise could help uncover the truth and pave the way for corrective action. Any takers? What are your thoughts? Colin Deoki, Australia
Equal citizenry
The idea that the current constitution grants equal citizenry has to be one of the worst sales ever. Under the guise of the equal citizenry concept, one can easily witness the continuous “me and my cronies” come first game being played. How can this sales return be processed? I think what is on the ground matters more than what is paper. Mohammed Imraz Janif, Natabua, Lautoka
Memory loss
Has the Hon Cabinet Minister, Premila Kumar suffered a convenient memory loss? She has stated that “the poverty rate dropped to 24.1 percent”, while the FijiFirst was in office. Has she conveniently forgotten that the head of the Bureau of Statistics was fired because he disclosed the real statistics on the level of poverty in the country? I don’t believe madam that your statement holds any real truth due to actions taken by the FijiFirst government to silence their critic on the issue. I’m eagerly awaiting a full statement in response from the Minister of Finance in regards to the actual GDP growth. Which again I believe is heavily sugar coated. Tai Smith Nasinu Sec Sch Rd, Kinoya
Fiji FA sponsorship
IT’S a pity that Fiji Football Association started the 2025 season without a sponsor. Digicel sponsored the league and the national team last year, but did not continue their sponsorship this year. I thank Extra Supermarket, which has been sponsoring Rewa and Labasa, for coming on board. Extra Supermarket’s Chief Marketing Officer Lailanie Burnes and Managing Director Abhishek Abhimannu are commended for their sponsorship. The much-needed sponsorship extends to the Extra Premier League, Senior League, Under-19 Boys Youth League, U-16 Boys Youth League, Futsal League, Futsal IDC and the national futsal team. While the sponsorship with the supermarket chain was made at an undisclosed amount, I believe it will assist the parent body. Heading into round two of the league, this is good news for football districts. This week, Navua battles Nasinu, Labasa and Nadroga host neighbours Tavua and Ba, respectively, and Nadi will face Suva. Navua, Nadi and Nasinu were in top form beating Nadroga, Tavua and Lautoka 3-1, 3-0 and 2-0, respectively. The Babasiga Lions held Rewa to a 1-1 draw, and a win against Tavua will set things right. The Lions need a win to set their O-League campaign on track. All the best boys. Get the three points. Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu
