Tunabuna said fewer young Fijians are returning to sugarcane farming, leaving the sector increasingly dependent on an aging workforce. He noted that many children of farmers are choosing education and jobs in cities or overseas, reducing the number of skilled workers available in rural areas.

The shortage of labour, especially cane cutters and farm workers, is now affecting harvesting and overall productivity. Tunabuna pointed out that very few people are willing to take up sugarcane farming, resulting in a growing number of elderly farmers in the sector.

He added that the industry is struggling to find experienced workers who can handle physically demanding tasks such as cutting and loading cane. As a result, farms are relying more on workers from villages who often have other income options.

The minister said this trend has weakened the industry's base, which once depended on a strong and organised workforce. He warned that unless sugarcane farming becomes more appealing and efficient, the sector will continue to lose workers to other industries.

Tunabuna stressed that solving labour issues is crucial to stabilising production and ensuring the long-term survival of the industry.