Overall growth in agriculture during 2013 can be described as marginal when compared to 2012, with many sub-sectors showing marked improvement and presenting the sector with opportunities. This follows a return to growth in the sector in 2012 following three consecutive years of declines between 2009 and 2011.
A significant increase in sales by local producers to hotels, increases in mariculture and aquaculture, signal improved performance in non-traditional areas while the traditional sub-sectors continue to be challenged.
Banana exports to the United Kingdom showed a marginal increase of 0.6 percent and earned our farmers $21.1 million dollars. Purchases of bananas locally increased by approximately 18.9 percent and earned $2.2 million. Non-banana crops fared well with the volume of supermarket purchases growing by 15.5 percent which resulted in an increase in revenue to farmers by 16.5 percent.
Hotel purchases of crops increased by 19.6 percent with revenue increasing by 36.6 percent representing earnings of $6.3 million EC dollars. This represents the most significant increase in purchases by hotels. While there are still opportunities for growth in the hotel market for our farmers, there are positive signs that farmers are being more consistent with quality and supply. Hoteliers are also demonstrating a greater willingness to work with farmer organisations and the ministry to increase opportunities for our farmers.
To read more, Agriculture shows resilience; presents opportunities
Adapted from St. Lucia News Online
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