The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has approved temporary increases to sugarcane harvesting and cartage rates in response to rising global fuel prices that have significantly increased operating costs for service providers.

The revised rates came into effect on 23 June 2026 and are aimed at ensuring harvesting and transportation services remain operational throughout the 2026 crushing season.

Under the new arrangement, mechanical harvesting rates have risen by 30.3 percent, increasing from $18.90 to $24.63 per tonne. FCCC has also approved a 25.4 percent increase in sugarcane lorry cartage rates to help offset higher diesel expenses faced by transport operators.

Mechanical harvesting rates apply to machinery used to cut and harvest cane in the fields, while the cartage rates cover the transportation of harvested cane from Rakiraki to Rarawai.

FCCC said its assessment found that recent disruptions in global fuel markets had driven up diesel prices, placing considerable financial pressure on operators whose businesses rely heavily on fuel.

Chief Executive Officer Senikavika Jiuta said the Commission sought to strike a balance between maintaining essential industry services and ensuring fairness for all stakeholders affected by the fuel price surge.

She noted that the review focused specifically on fuel-related cost increases and their impact on operations, with the approved adjustments reflecting only the additional expenses linked to fuel.

The rate changes will be supported by a temporary government subsidy aimed at easing the burden on cane growers while helping maintain the sustainability of the sugar industry.

FCCC said it will continue monitoring fuel market trends and industry conditions alongside the Fuel Monitoring Taskforce, which will also oversee compliance and guard against unfair practices.

Consumers who encounter overcharging or other unfair trading practices are encouraged to report the matter to the FCCC through its available contact channels.