Despite world leaders and international media warning of a global food crisis, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Pearnel Charles Jr is not anticipating that Jamaica will be affected in the near future.

However, considering that the country is susceptible to international shocks, he said the ministry is working with its other government counterparts to mitigate any long-term impact.

“Jamaica is not experiencing a shortage of food at this time. In fact, we are seeing high production and continue to provide support to the sector through production programmes, production incentives, technical support by RADA [Rural Agricultrual Development Authority] and international partners like FAO [Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations] to ensure that domestic crop production remains constant and stable,” he told Jamaica Observer in response to a question on the island’s preparedness.

Charles Jr pointed out that over the last year domestic food crop production has increased by 10.4 per cent. Over the last three months, agricultural production has improved by the same figure, which, according to the minister, “is a healthy sign”.

When asked about the impact of export bans on Jamaica, he responded that none of the bans announced has directly affected Jamaica.

“However, we recognise the concerns and are maintaining vigilance to ensure that any developments that may affect us can be responsed to effectively and in a timely manner. Additionally, we recognise Caricom as a potential buffer to aid in securing supplies should the need arise,” Charles Jr continued.

At the same time, the agriculture ministry is pursuing a strategy of stimulating sustainable and increased local production by supporting farmers with seeds, fertilisers, and technical support, among other things.

“We are also advancing research and development on alternative sources of feed and fertilisers for our long-term benefit. Additionally, we continue to invest in rehabilitating our farm roads, expanding our irrigation, and providing technical expertise from our network of agencies,” Charles Jr shared.

He also revealed that there is strategic coordination across ministries and sectors to ensure alignment of policies and projects and to boost agricultural production in a bid to address food security issues.