Australia's Mackay Sugar hit by cyberattack, crops delayed
A cyberattack on Australia's second-largest sugar producer, Mackay Sugar, has forced farmers to delay harvesting crops, potentially denting their incomes. The company is optimistic about resuming operations, but growers are advised to wait. The delay affects sugar quality and price, with crops needing to be processed within 48 hours of harvest.
Key points
- Mackay Sugar, Australia's second-largest sugar producer, was hit by a cyberattack on June 10.
- The attack forced farmers to delay harvesting crops, potentially denting their incomes.
- Growers are advised to wait before harvesting, as delayed processing can reduce sugar quality and price.
- Mackay Sugar is optimistic about resuming operations, with some manual crushing already underway at its Farleigh Mill site.
- The company expects to recommence harvesting this week in preparation for a staged restart of crushing operations.
Mackay Sugar, a major player in Australia's sugar industry, has been hit by a cyberattack. The company, based in Queensland, processes sugar cane farmed in nearby districts. The attack, which occurred on June 10, has forced farmers to delay harvesting crops, potentially denting their incomes.
The company has made some progress in restoring its systems, with manual crushing already underway at its Farleigh Mill site. However, growers are advised to wait before harvesting, as delayed processing can reduce sugar quality and price. Crops need to be processed within 48 hours of harvest to preserve high sugar content and overall yield.
The delay affects not only the quality of the sugar but also the price that growers can earn for their crops. Late harvesting can reduce the quality of the cane, leading to lower yields and prices. The situation is being closely monitored, with the company optimistic about resuming operations in the coming days.
Sources
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