The $2 million Commercial Agriculture Development Program for the 2023/2024 financial year has significantly aided exporters and farmers, according to Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu. In response to an inquiry from Opposition member Sachida Nand about the beneficiaries of the program, Minister Rayalu revealed that nine exporters and 11 food processors have received support.
He highlighted that the program focuses on enhancing storage capacity, improving electricity supply, and acquiring essential equipment such as cool rooms and generators, as well as upgrading existing infrastructure. One exporter successfully increased their storage capacity from 300 tonnes to 450 tonnes, allowing them to purchase from farmers in November of the previous year and January of the current year.