According
to GreenVine, without a doubt, CSME offers potential to most sectors
including the agri-food sector but for this sector to realise the
full benefits of the CSME there must be an adequate level of planning,
strategising and ensuring that the required infrastructure is in
place.
Some will win and some will lose.
Clearly, the CSME would impact both positively and negatively
on the various segments of the sector.
The primary producers or farmers are unlikely to experience
any major benefits and in some instances may lose market share
to more efficient producers.
The local agri-food manufacturers who benefit from the cheapest
energy cost and relatively high levels of automation in the region
and also enjoy better physical infrastructure than those in the
farming community generally stand to benefit most.
CSME and non-Tariff barriers.
The CSME is a mechanism to promote a single market and economy.
However, because of other non-tariff barriers such as
SPs concerns, our fresh produce currently is only allowed into
Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and Dominica, NAMDEVCO, in collaboration
with the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands and Marine Resources developed
and is implementing a Farm Inspection and Monitoring Programme.
It is underpinned by the principles of Good Agricultural Practices
(GAP) and ensures that farms from which produce is harvested are
free from pest and diseases; and that only allowable limits of
pesticides are used.
Agricultural health specialists from the importing countries also
subject these farms to random annual inspections.
Currently we are working with the St. Lucian authorities to re-gain
access to this market.
Capitalising on potential benefits.
In order for our producers to benefit from the potential benefits
of the CSME they must be armed with the necessary market intelligence
to plan and manage their production targeted at specific markets.
In short, they must produce to specific market requirements.
To this end, NAMDEVCO in collaboration with the CABA, CARDI, and
IICA would be hosting the First specific markets.
In short they must produce to specific market requirements.
To this end, NAMDEVCO in collaboration with the CABA, CARDI, and
IICA would be hosting the First Caribbean Agri-Food Trade Convention
to be held from May 24 to 27, 2006 at the Paria Suites and Conference
Centre, South Trinidad.
Participation in this event would answer some important questions
to investing in the Agri-food sector such as: What products are
in demand and at what price?
Who are your main competitors in the region?
What are the main markets?
Who are the main purchasing agents?
What are the quality requirements?
So why not come to Paria Suites and discover valuable investment
opportunities in the Agri-food sector?
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