FSC Drives Development of Idle Land for Cane Cultivation

Lautoka, Fiji– After more than a decade of abandonment, a once-idle sugarcane farm in Wainikoro, Labasa, has been transformed into a thriving agricultural hub, demonstrating that with the right vision, resources, and commitment, Fiji’s sugar industry can regain its strength.

The Fiji Sugar Corporation Ltd (FSC), in partnership with local landowners and the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), has successfully restored this farmland, marking a significant step toward revitalising sugarcane farming in the region. This initiative not only brings unused land back into production but also empowers farmers, promotes mechanisation, and secures long-term economic benefits for rural communities.

Recognising the land’s potential for mechanisation, FSC collaborated with landowners to implement a phased approach to planting. The first step involved preparing 1.5 hectares for seed cane, which will later support the expansion of an additional 10 hectares of sugarcane cultivation.

Beyond Wainikoro, FSC has identified 10 land parcels in Lautoka, 11 in Parawai, and 10 in Labasa for development and is actively working with the TLTB and the Fiji Development Bank to drive these initiatives forward.

Additionally, in collaboration with Mataqali Walana landowners, FSC has planted 1.4 hectares of seed cane and plans to expand cultivation across 40 hectares.

In Wainikoro, land preparation began in August 2024, followed by planting on September 11, 2024. To encourage wider community involvement, FSC organised a field day on the farm, providing farmers with hands-on training in land preparation, weed control, cane cultivation, and sustainable farming techniques. This inclusive approach, with active community participation, has been a key factor in the project’s success. Experts from the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF) also provided guidance on soil health and seed selection to ensure sustainable productivity.

Mechanisation has been a game-changer in this project, reducing labour demands and significantly improving efficiency. Additionally, the farmer invested in a tractor and essential farm implements, streamlining operations and ensuring long-term sustainability.

FSC Chief Executive Officer Bhan Singh emphasised that Wainikoro’s success highlights the vast potential of reclaiming idle farmland for economic growth and food security.

“Through strong partnerships with landowners and farmers, FSC is driving renewed interest in sugarcane farming and ensuring that agricultural land is utilised effectively. “This is just the beginning—FSC remains committed to working with stakeholders to expand sustainable sugarcane cultivation across Fiji,” Singh said.

Singh also reaffirmed FSC’s alignment with the National Development Plan (NDP) strategy, which prioritises enhancing farming on underutilised arable land, optimising land use, and establishing commercial farms to drive economies of scale.

“At FSC, we are committed to these goals by empowering farmers through targeted training programs, promoting technology adoption, and supporting business management skills development. Additionally, we continue to advocate for incentives that boost cane production and improve farmers’ welfare, including financial inclusion opportunities. By implementing these strategies, we can strengthen Fiji’s sugar industry and ensure long-term sustainability for our farmers and landowning units,” Singh added.

According to FSC’s Head of Agriculture, Lakshman Jayaraman, this initiative is a clear demonstration of FSC’s commitment to empowering farmers and maximising land productivity.

“By integrating mechanisation and strategic planning, we are making sugarcane farming more efficient, profitable, and sustainable. We encourage all landowners with idle farmland to work with us in revitalising sugarcane production and securing a stronger future for Fiji’s sugar industry,” said Jayaraman.

FSC remains dedicated to identifying and supporting the revitalisation of idle farmland across Fiji. Through strategic partnerships and modern agricultural techniques, the Corporation aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry while boosting farmer incomes and strengthening rural economies.