Perhaps the biggest obstacle that stands between the Fijian sugar industry and valuable long-term change is getting cane growers on board and understanding the research aims and solutions.

An analysis of the future outlook for sugar in Fiji should not go without noting that a fundamental, and potentially pivotal aspect of this industry that could create space for change, is the method of payment. As cane growers seek higher income to support their families, their minds are predominately occupied with how heavy their harvest of sugar cane is. This mindset shifts responsibility of sugar yield, industry efficiency and sustainability away from the growers and onto the industry and the country itself. Educating individual growers to understand that their decisions are detrimental for the industry long term. This could potentially shift the culture of the industry from individualist to collectivist. Changing focus from short-term gain to long-term sustainability is essential for not only the growers, but also for the social and environmental well-being of Fiji.

After speaking with employees at the SRIF, learning about their initiatives and also experiencing the agricultural, political and social nature of the South Pacific and Fiji, a bottom-up approach seems to be the most appropriate and promising method. If the SRIF, in cooperation with the Fijian government and the sugar industry, were able to utilize sugar circuits throughout Fiji to spread knowledge of research projects and technology-transfer, logistical barriers could be overcome through the power of community sharing. A selection (say 10%) of farmers within each sugar circuit could spend a couple of days with researchers to gain an understanding of current issues within the industry and be introduced to the solutions identified by SRIF. The time invested in education would then be spread within each sugar circuit community, and networks of knowledge could be established to achieve meaningful long-term change.

These changes within the sugar industry are essential for a Small Island Developing State like Fiji, that is extremely vulnerable to climate change and increased import prices, to meet sustainable development goals. The recommended shifts would work in support of the United Nation’s SAMOA pathway to improve and promote sustainability in the sugar industry. Through increasing efficiency and effectiveness, domestic and international markets for sugar could be more open and productive to sustain long term economic development. Furthermore, a more productive industry could encourage an increase in rural and local income and employment opportunities, that focuses on empowering small-scale food producers, particularly women. Ultimately, the SRIF services would likely encourage sustainability within the sugar industry if suggested solutions are properly implemented across Fiji.