The Ministry of Agriculture is taking significant steps to bolster the supply of locally sourced food for hotels and resorts in an effort to support local farmers and reduce the reliance on imported food. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the connection between agriculture and tourism, thereby benefiting both sectors.
Key plans are being developed to streamline the logistics of delivering local produce to the tourism industry, with the Ministry of Agriculture and Sugar Industry focused on increasing production, enhancing quality, and ensuring a reliable supply for hotels. The Minister for Agriculture, Tomasi Tunabuna, emphasized the importance of modernizing farming practices and reducing post-harvest losses. By leveraging technology and introducing mechanization, the Ministry aims to increase efficiency and meet the growing demands of the tourism sector.
In addition to boosting production, the initiative seeks to promote traditional and hybrid fruits while fostering agritourism. This dual approach not only aims to decrease food waste in hotels but also seeks to empower farmers by providing them with better income opportunities, ultimately contributing to enhanced food security.
As the Ministry engages in discussions leading up to this year’s budget, the focus remains on creating robust market systems for farmers. The goal is to ensure that the growth of the tourism industry translates into sustainable income and economic benefits for households nationwide. Minister Tunabuna reiterated the commitment to promoting locally grown fruits to meet the demands of hotels while also promoting agritourism so that more communities can reap the rewards of tourism development.
This initiative reflects a promising synergy between agriculture and tourism, potentially resulting in a more resilient economy and improved livelihoods for farmers and their families.
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