8 Dec 2017

Sweet deal from India for Fiji sugar farmers

6:32 pm on 8 December 2017

India has given Fiji just over $US1 million to buy new sugar cane farming machinery and equipment.

Sugar cane trucks in Fiji's western division.

Sugar cane trucks in Fiji's western division. Photo: RNZ / Alex Perrottet

Fiji's Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama said the grant was reflective of the strong relations shared between the two countries.

He said the machines Fiji purchased through the grant would help cane farmers become more efficient and adapt more easily to both a changing economy and climate.

The Indian High Commissioner Vishvas Sapkal said a team from India was also working with sugar stakeholders in Fiji to provide possible support for rail network development.

The Ministry of Sugar's permanent secretary, Yogesh Karan, said the grant would boost cane production through mechanisation of the industry.

He said Mahindra tractors were available in Fiji and more Indian products would be bought with the grant money in time to capitalise on the current planting season.

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