Ramu: State must protect local sugar production

By MARK HAIHUIE
FURTHER reductions on imported sugar tariffs will adversely impact domestic production, according to Ramu Agri Industries general manager Ruari MacWilliam ( pictured).
The last reduction was in 2012 to allow for sugar imports to offset a shortage of supply from Ramu.
“Ramu Sugar is a national icon receiving great support from its customers. However a further reduction in import tariffs would have a significant impact in the viability of production in PNG,” MacWilliam said.
“In order to remain competitive against imports, Ramu has had to absorb the increased costs of production over the last five years.”
MacWilliam told The National that the company had used some of its leased land to plant oil palm. It will not affect sugar farming land.
He said the company was continuing to improve its beef production operation to meet demand.
“Looking ahead, Ramu will continue to improve agricultural practices to increase yields ensuring that Ramu Sugar continues to play a part in everyone’s life,” he said.
“Sugar production remains very much part of the company’s strategy with no plans to reduce the current production area provided that it remains economically viable to do so.
“The key is ensuring that there are no further reductions to the current import tariffs. “Beef production has been a part of Ramu Agri Industries Limited since the beginning of its operations. Ramu has the nation’s largest herd processing in excess of 6500 heads through its abattoir annually.”