Jamaica's agriculture sector is experiencing one of its driest periods, with over half of its parishes receiving less rainfall than their 30-year average. Despite this, Agriculture Minister Floyd Green announced a reduction in the prices of various fruits and vegetables, benefiting consumers.
In a recent address to Parliament, Green highlighted that approximately 70% of vegetables have seen price reductions, with some dropping by as much as 66%. Sweet pepper prices fell from $8.40 per kilogram in December to $2.86 per kilogram in January. Lettuce and tomato prices decreased by 44% and 40%, respectively, moving from $4.47 to $2.49 per kilogram, and from $7.15 to $4.29 per kilogram.
Pak choi and carrot prices also declined by 22% and 33%, with pak choi prices dropping from $1.73 per kilogram to $1.36 per kilogram, and carrots from $4.29 to $2.86 per kilogram. The price reduction in pak choi was supported by increased production in Clarendon and St Ann.
Other vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, romaine lettuce, string beans, and cabbage recorded price decreases ranging from 9% to 23%. This trend is expected to persist, providing ongoing relief to consumers. However, Green expressed concerns about certain fruit prices, particularly melons and cantaloupes, due to weather challenges.
Green acknowledged the efforts of farmers who have remained resilient, noting that plantain prices have dropped by 7% to $2.00 per kilogram, and pineapple prices by 6% to $2.15 per kilogram. He attributed the recovery to government support through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, in collaboration with RADA and other agencies.
With drier months anticipated, the ministry is implementing measures to address challenges, including deploying water trucks to affected parishes and investing in sustainable water solutions.
Source: The Gleaner