Climate change in Fiji has led to a significant 20-30% loss in cane production due to issues like flooding, saltwater intrusion, soil erosion, and drought.
Reshmi Kumari, Director of Planning, Policy, and Research at the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, highlighted these challenges at the 3rd International Conference on Sustainability in the Global Sugar Industry in Pune, India.
Kumari stressed Fiji’s need for advanced research and technology adoption to strengthen its sugar industry. She expressed optimism about adopting shared technologies from other nations to boost yields and reduce costs.
The conference, attended by over 2,500 participants from 28 countries, emphasized international collaboration to address common issues like climate change, labor shortages, and high production costs. Advanced sugar industry countries showcased innovative technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, simulation technologies, and data analytical tools, aiming to enhance decision-making, mitigate labor scarcity, reduce cultivation costs, and minimize the impact of climate change.
The event also featured a diverse exhibition with 250 stalls displaying cutting-edge technologies from farm to sugar factory.
