Fiji’s declining cane yield and production due to climate-related events, including flooding, salt-water intrusion, soil erosion, and drought was highlighted at the third International Conference & Exhibition on Sustainability: Challenges & Opportunities in Global Sugar Industry in Pune, India, recently.

The Sugar Ministry’s Director of Planning, Policy, and Research Reshmi Kumari highlighted the issues faced by the industry in Fiji and said they have contributed to a 20 to 30 per cent loss in terms of cane production over the years.

The conference, attended by over 2,500 participants from 28 countries, provided a platform for Ms Kumari to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by Fiji and other nations in the sugar industry. She further emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing common issues such as climate change, labour shortages, and high production cost.

Ms Kumari underscored Fiji’s need for advanced research and technology adoption to bolster the sugar industry. She further expressed optimism about leveraging shared technologies from other nations, emphasizing the potential for maximizing profits by increasing yield and reducing per-unit costs.
Countries with advanced sugar industries showcased innovative technologies, biotechnologies including computer-based Artificial Intelligence (AI) simulation technologies, such as remote sensing – Drones, and data analytical tools – Geographical Information System (GIS). These technologies aim to enhance decision-making, mitigate labor scarcity, reduce cultivation costs,