The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has approved temporary increases in sugarcane harvesting and lorry cartage rates to help operators cope with rising fuel costs and ensure the smooth continuation of the 2026 crushing season.
The revised rates took effect yesterday, June 23, and are aimed at protecting critical harvesting and transportation services from the impact of escalating global fuel prices while the Government implements a temporary subsidy to shield cane growers from the additional costs.
Under the new rates, mechanical harvesting charges have increased by 30.3 per cent, from $18.90 to $24.63 per tonne.
FCCC has also approved a 25.4 per cent increase in authorised sugarcane cartage rates from Rakiraki area to B, reflecting the sharp rise in diesel prices experienced in recent months.
The Commission said its assessment found that fuel price increases driven by global market disruptions had placed significant financial pressure on harvesting operators and lorry service providers, whose businesses rely heavily on diesel.
FCCC Chief Executive Officer Senikavika Jiuta said the regulator’s priority was to ensure industry operations could continue while maintaining fairness for all stakeholders.
“Our analysis focused on fuel cost fluctuations and their direct operational impact. The adjustments reflect only the necessary increases tied to fuel, ensuring transparency and fairness in the process,” Jiuta said.
The approved harvesting rates apply to mechanical harvesting services 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 Fiji’s dependence on imported fuel means international market fluctuations will continue to affect local fuel prices and operating costs across various sectors.
The Commission, together with members of the Fuel Monitoring Taskforce, will continue monitoring fuel markets and industry conditions to ensure compliance and prevent businesses from exploiting the situation through unfair pricing practices.
Consumers who encounter overcharging or other unfair trading practices are encouraged to report them to FCCC through its hotline services or regional offices.
