On Saturday local farmers received 8 new varieties of rice, ahead of the new planting season.
Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Ravi Ratiram, says the move is geared towards reducing the food importation bill, pushing the consumption of locally grown, sustainable crops.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is strengthening this country’s capacity to produce more of the food that we consume.
On Saturday its Research Division provided rice farmers from various parts of the country with eight new varieties of rice, as they prepare for another planting season.
According to Director, Ian Mohammed, they are inclusive of the GRDB 10, 15, 16, and an aromatic variety.
The Minister noted that Trinidad and Tobago rice production figure currently stands above 1,000 metric tonnes.
He congratulated farmers on their continuous dedication to the sector, despite the many challenges they encounter.
On a related note, the Agriculture Ministry and the Ministry of Public Utilities are ensuring the rice farmers have access to water.
Rice farmer, Fazal Akaloo, expressed optimism about the future of the crop locally.
The Agriculture Minister underscored the importance of a reliable market for rice farmers, so consumers can access locally produced safe, affordable and good quality rice. Agro processing was also another avenue he urged those in attendance to consider.