The Belize government is looking to rejuvenate the declining citrus and banana sectors. Recent data from the Statistical Institute of Belize indicates a drop in output for both commodities. Despite this, in November 2021, banana earnings increased to $5.6 million from $4.6 million in 2022, while citrus also saw a $0.4 million increase compared to 2022. Both industries have traditionally been significant foreign income sources for Belize, but exports have sharply declined.
Agriculture Minister, Jose Mai, acknowledges that while efforts are underway to address these challenges, recovery will take time. Mai highlighted multiple issues impacting the industries, including disease, climate change, and the high rate of fertilization required for bananas. Climate change has also impacted both industries, further complicating recovery efforts. He also revealed the appointment of a task force to assess the citrus situation and make recommendations. Mai expressed hope that the weather conditions and decreasing fertilizer prices would help control the banana sector's challenges.
Mai claims the previous administration neglected the agriculture sector. He emphasized the government's current efforts to work with southern farmers to diversify their crops.
Source: lovefm.com