The Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu has announced that the government’s $2 million Commercial Agriculture Development Program for the 2023/2024 financial year has significantly benefited exporters and farmers. In response to a question from Opposition member Sachida Nand regarding the sectors receiving assistance from the program, Mr. Rayalu confirmed that nine exporters and 11 food processors have participated.
The program aims to enhance storage capacity, improve electricity supply, and provide resources for purchasing cool rooms and generators as well as upgrading infrastructure. One exporter reported an increase in storage capacity from 300 tonnes to 450 tonnes, enabling him to make purchases from farmers in November last year and January this year.