The Ministry of Agriculture is reporting a 0.6 per cent increase in domestic crop production for the July to September quarter.

Among the crops that showed growth despite the setback of tropical Storm Gustav in August, were vegetables, fruits and cereals, accounting for an increase of 5.4, 20.5 and 23.4 per cent respectively.

The parishes of St Elizabeth and Trelawny showed positive changes in production for the quarter, with St Elizabeth contributing 13 per cent and Trelawny 6.8 per cent. Combined, the parishes accounted for approximately 41 per cent of total production.

The domestic crop sub-sector performed commendably, given the direct damage caused by the tropical storm and the excessive rainfall the island experienced in the following weeks. While the domestic landscape was looking up, there was a 29 per cent decline in traditional export crops, in particular sugar cane and banana.

Further declines

Other areas reporting declines were the animal products sub-sector, which registered a 5.4 per cent decline. Of that figure, poultry, meat and egg production accounted for 5.3 per cent, whilst yam production suffered a 7.3 per cent decline, due to the impact of previous hurricanes.

The agriculture ministry said it recognised that the sector was faced with many challenges and that it had to play a lead role in repositioning the sector to meet challenges

In an attempt to advance production and productivity; several initiatives were started.

One of the major initiatives was to target a slate of crops, identified as offering strong potential for the substitution of imports and for agro-processing. The ministry carried out analyses on a crop-by-crop basis and examined the factors affecting production and productivity, and is now implementing targeted interventions.

The interventions are aimed at fast-tracking the recovery process and stimulating growth in the domestic crop sub-sector.

The main effect on production will be realised, beginning in the first quarter of 2009.

To ensure that farmers have a secure market for the expected increase in production, the ministry began developing plans, which include discussions with importers and distributors, as well as other government agencies, to ensure the security of markets.