Queensland sugar producer MSF Sugar has marked a milestone in sustainable exports after its raw sugar shipment broke new ground in global markets, underlining Australia’s increasing focus on environmentally responsible supply chains.
MSF Sugar’s John Stubbs said the shipment is the first time Australian raw sugar produced from Smartcane BMP-accredited farms has been exported to Japan and been verified through the internationally recognised VIVE Sustainability Supply Programme.
“This MSF Sugar shipment is a historic day for the Australian sugar industry,” Stubbs said.
“This is the first sugar that’s been sourced from a fully verified sustainable supply chain, from farm to mill ship. We think with VIVE and the Smartcane program we’ve now linked the aspirations of growers, millers, our customers, and the end consumer when it comes to sustainability.”
MSF Sugar’s Mulgrave Mill and South Johnstone Mill near Innisfail have become the first mills in Australia to achieve VIVE certification. Representatives from MSF Sugar, CANEGROWERS and Japanese sugar importer ITOCHU Corporation were on hand to watch the MV HSC River complete loading at the Cairns Bulk Sugar Terminal.
CANEGROWERS Cairns region director and local grower Paul Gregory said the shipment demonstrates growers’ long-term investment in sustainable farming practices are being rewarded.
“Growers have been putting a lot of work into Smartcane BMP over a long period of time, so it’s good to see that effort being recognised,” Gregory said.
Smartcane BMP is also recognised by VIVE, allowing sugar from accredited farms and certified mills to be independently verified as sustainably sourced.
“Smartcane BMP is a pathway that gives us entry into future markets where there is a clear trend that buyers are looking for sustainably grown sugar,” Gregory said.
“This is about building momentum, and it proves the system does work and gives growers confidence that sustainability accreditation can open doors to new markets and future opportunities.”