The US$20M Agriculture Export Diversification Programme currently being implemented by government is a multi-faceted strategy that seeks to reposition the sector with focus on establishment of the necessary framework to lead the process in all the targeted areas including the livestock industry.

The Diversification Programme funded by government with support from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) targets expansion of potential growth areas such as the non-traditional crop sector, livestock industry and aquaculture.

Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud, pointed out that the investment is intended to have a more long-term impact on the agricultural sector although it supports ongoing initiatives such as the ‘Grow-More’ campaign that focuses on increased food production.

“It’s a multi-faceted diversification strategy and it very comprehensive. It looks at the regulatory structure and also the supply and production side constraints that we have in the particular crops and livestock type activities,” he explained.

In the livestock industry, the programme will set up the framework to address the need for updated plant and animal health infrastructure with emphasis on the need for modern processing facilities that are certified for export of meat and meat products.

The need for a state-of-the-art abattoir through which support will be given to the private sector for establishing such infrastructure and development of a semi-autonomous entity such as a livestock development board to regulate the industry’s expansion are also being given attention under the Diversification Programme.

It was pointed out that a great deal of attention is being given to updated plant and animal health infrastructure, systems and facilities because it is recognised that exposure to any disease can hamper not only the entire livestock industry but the economy.

Under the component for aquaculture development, focus will be placed on establishment of more farms which will be supported by the hatchery currently being constructed.

The plan for fruits and vegetables will place emphasis on plantation-type farms and support to farmers and farmers group. It was explained that while Government will partner with the large farmers to develop their activities, significant attention will be given to formation of clusters whereby small farmers could enjoy greater benefits.

“If we are to dent or have any significant quantity of do economies of scales we need to bring farmers together so we have started that. A lot of emphasis will be placed on bringing the farmers together so they can share resources and whatever ever facilities we are provided,” Persaud stated.

The main components of the Diversification Programme are private sector entrepreneurship into agribusiness, agribusiness export and facilitation services, strengthening and consolidating agricultural health and food safety services and drainage and irrigation rehabilitation.