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On The Land

19 October, 2025

Triple tick for cane growers

QUEENSLAND sugarcane has picked up a rare global “triple tick” for sustainability, with the industry’s Smartcane BMP program now recognised by the world’s three leading benchmarks – VIVE, Bonsucro and ProTerra.


Triple tick for cane growers - feature photo

The latest nod, from VIVE, puts Queensland ahead of the pack as major buyers increasingly demand proof that their supply chains are sustainable.

The endorsement adds weight to earlier breakthroughs, including a blockchain-tracked shipment to South Korea in 2022 and the first export of accredited sugar to the UK under the free trade agreement in 2023.

Smartcane BMP, developed and run by Canegrowers with backing from the Queensland Government, recently chalked up its 800th accredited farm, meaning almost half the state’s cane area is now managed under the program.

Canegrowers chief executive officer Dan Galligan said the recognition was the result of years of grower effort and persistent lobbying to have the program accepted globally.

As well as certifying sustainability credentials and improving environmental outcomes, the framework has also helped growers run more profitable, more resilient businesses.

“This is not just a win for Smartcane BMP – it’s a win for every grower who has kept records, met the standards and committed to continuous improvement,” Mr Galligan said.

“It confirms that this program stands up globally. Now it’s recognised as such, and that brings real commercial opportunities.”

Coca-Cola has also given Smartcane BMP the green light, calling it a “leader standard” for responsible sourcing.

Mr Galligan said the triple recognition showed Queensland was ready to meet changing global markets.

Canegrowers Tablelands chairman Claude Santucci agreed.

“Local growers have set an enviable record that not only serves to protect the Barrier Reef lagoon in a sustainable level but also the environment,” he said.

“These standards have been achieved via audits and accreditation for farmers and their cane producing properties to ensure the highest possible standards have been met and maintained.

“Global buyers are demanding sustainable supply chains, and this proves an Australian, grower-designed program is among the very best in the world.

“Currently, the Tableland crop is just over halfway through harvesting and depending on weather and other conditions, should be completed in the late November to early December period.”

He said that at this stage, the 2025 Tableland cane crop was shaping up to be one of the highest tonnages on record.

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