Lease renewal dilemma

The CEO of the Sugar Cane Growers Fund, Raj Sharma, stated that it is inevitable that indigenous landowners will choose to convert land to commercial use rather than renew agricultural leases. He emphasized that this has become a challenge that needs to be taken seriously. This trend reflects a shift in priorities among landowners seeking more profitable land use options.

Mr. Sharma stated on The Lens@177 program that this issue is particularly prominent when discussing the renewal of indigenous land leases with officials from the iTaukei Land Trust Board. He noted that the Fund has submitted this issue to relevant departments, especially the TLTB, and has communicated with the land sector, focusing on indigenous land leases. Landowners are looking to maximize the returns from their land upon lease expiry, which is understandable from their perspective.

He stated that landowners do not earn much from agricultural leases. Therefore, the Fund has been working to persuade them to retain quality land in case farmers are unable to obtain land, and to obtain 99-year residential leases. Simultaneously, the Fund has also been requesting the TLTB to provide alternative agricultural land for farmers, which is crucial for sustaining agricultural production.

Mr. Sharma added that the results of the discussions have been mixed. Some landowners have clearly stated their refusal to renew leases and have already begun converting to commercial uses. However, for other lands, the Fund, in collaboration with the TLTB, has successfully renewed lease contracts. He expressed his gratitude to the TLTB and emphasized that the two parties maintain a good working relationship, essential for navigating these complex land issues.