In Saint Lucia, a total of $953,505 was allocated to 244 banana and plantain farmers, ripeners, and exporters during a ceremony on May 31, 2024. The funds are meant to compensate for losses attributed to recent box shortages, which have impeded export activities. This financial aid aims to address the repercussions of crop spoilage resulting from an insufficient supply of packaging materials.
Minister for Agriculture, Alfred Prospere, highlighted the necessity of adopting sustainable practices to enhance competitiveness and market presence. Prospere underscored the imperative of producing premium quality bananas for both the domestic and international markets, acknowledging the array of challenges, especially climatic adversities, confronting farmers. He assured continuous governmental support to overcome these obstacles. The initial estimate for agricultural assistance was projected at about $500,000; however, subsequent evaluations necessitated a substantial increase to adequately compensate for the farmers' losses. Prime Minister Pierre referenced the detrimental effects of Tropical Storm Bret on agriculture and the difficulties in securing adequate packaging supplies. Nevertheless, he lauded the government's prompt and collaborative efforts to provide essential support. In response to the packaging crisis, the local manufacturer WINERA has recommenced the production of shipping containers for agricultural exports, aiming to alleviate future shortages.
Source: stlucia.loopnews.com