Wilmar negotiations welcome

MARCH 24, 2016: We've had good news late today that Wilmar Sugar will begin negotiations with cane growers which recognise their right to a say over who markets their sugar.I’m pleased to hear that Wilmar is now ready to come to the negotiating table following the changes to legislation passed in State Parliament late last year, and thank goodness the tantrum is over.Wilmar have now written to growers to say that they will comply with the new laws which enable growers to choose who markets their sugar, whether it’s Wilmar or Queensland Sugar Limited.They’ve also said those growers choosing marketing entities other than Wilmar will be able to deal directly with those entities to negotiate their commercial arrangements.Wilmar are now putting together agreements that comply with the new law, and they will start holding what they call “Without Prejudice” discussions with growers from April 19.This is good news for cane growers and it should bring an end to years of uncertainty and upheaval.The official Federal Government view has always been that we want to see a commercial negotiation proceed under the new legislative arrangements.