Sugarcane farmers in Fiji's Northern Division have received more than $91,000 in grant assistance as the government works to support new growers, lease renewals and the 2026 crushing season.

The New Farmer and Lease Premium Assistance Program handover was held at the Sugar Cane Growers Fund office in Labasa.

The assistance is aimed at encouraging new farmers into the sugar industry, supporting lease renewals and keeping productive agricultural land under sugarcane cultivation.

Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Tomasi Tunabuna, said the industry remained an important economic and social pillar for Fiji.

"Government remains firmly committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of the sugar industry through farmer assistance programs, infrastructure development, research and improved industry governance," Mr Tunabuna said.

"Our vision is to build an industry that is productive, profitable, resilient and attractive to future generations of farmers."

The program has assisted 611 farmers across Fiji since it began.

Grant assistance totalling $91,664 was provided to farmers in the Northern Division during the latest handover.

Mr Tunabuna said the support came with an expectation that recipients would contribute to the industry's long-term future.

"This support provides an opportunity to strengthen farming operations and improve productivity, while also carrying the responsibility of contributing to the long-term growth and sustainability of the sugar industry," he said.

The handover comes as growers, harvesting gangs, contractors and transport operators raise concerns about fuel supply challenges ahead of the 2026 crushing season.

The government has guaranteed a minimum cane payment of $85 per tonne for the current season.

A $5 million fuel subsidy package has also been announced to assist farmers, harvesting gangs and transport operators facing higher operating costs.

Farmers and harvesting groups have been urged to sign the Memorandum of Gang Agreement, which sets out harvesting arrangements before mills begin operations.

Any delay could place the season at risk and reduce returns to farmers.

The government said it would continue working with farmers, industry institutions and stakeholders to build a stronger and more resilient sugar industry.