The Fiji Sugar Industry: Sustainability Challenges and the Way Forward

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Economics
• Development Studies
• Fijian Studies

Background:

• The Fijian sugar industry is a significant contributor to the national economy.
• Global trade dynamics and local agricultural challenges have historically impacted the industry.
• Smallholder sugarcane growers form a crucial part of the industry's labor force.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the multifaceted problems confronting Fiji's sugar industry.
• To analyze the impact of global trade and local issues on sugarcane production and manufacturing.
• To identify specific challenges faced by smallholder sugarcane growers in Fiji.

Main Methods:

• A customized mixed-methods research approach was employed.
• Data collection occurred in 2015 across Viti Levu and Vanua Levu sugarcane regions.
• The study included 33 farmers and their households from Girmitiya and iTaukei communities.

Main Results:

• The sugar industry is experiencing a 'perfect storm' of simultaneous major difficulties.
• Both macro-level (world trade) and micro-level (production, manufacturing) problems are severely affecting the industry.
• Smallholder growers face unique challenges impacting their livelihoods.

Conclusions:

• Fiji's sugar industry is in a critical state, requiring urgent attention.
• The confluence of external and internal factors has created an unprecedented crisis.
• Addressing these complex issues is essential for the industry's survival and the well-being of its farmers.