Support local onion farmers against foreign imports too
THE EDITOR, MADAM:
AN OPEN letter to the minister of agriculture with an urgent call to address the importation of foreign onions amid local surplus.
Allow me to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing importation of foreign onions into Jamaica, which has caused significant distress among our local farmers. This issue is particularly pressing, given that farmers, even within your own constituency, are facing a surplus of locally grown onions. These farmers are struggling to find buyers, and when they do, the prices offered are so low that they cannot even cover their production costs.
As a member of your constituency and an advocate for the agricultural community, I find this situation troubling for several reasons:
1. Economic impact on local farmers: Our farmers invest considerable time, effort, and resources into cultivating highquality onions. The inability to sell their produce at fair market prices threatens their financial stability and livelihoods. Many are at risk of incurring debts or abandoning farming altogether, which would have dire consequences for our local economy.
2. Role of the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA): It is concerning that RADA, the body responsible for supporting and safeguarding the interests of our farmers, has not effectively intervened to prevent this crisis. RADA’s mandate i ncludes ensuring market access and fair pricing for l ocally produced crops. Their apparent inaction raises questions about their effectiveness and commitment to the farming community.
3. Food security and selfsufficiency: Relying on imported produce when we have a surplus of locally grown onions undermines Jamaica’s goal of achieving food security and self-sufficiency. Promoting local agriculture is essential for reducing our dependency on imports, supporting our economy, and ensuring that fresh, high-quality produce is available to all Jamaicans.
I urge you, Minister Green, to take immediate action to address this issue. Specifically, I request the following:
· Review and adjust import policies: Implement measures to limit or regulate the importation of onions when there is a proven surplus of local produce.
· Strengthen RADA’s role and accountability: Conduct a thorough review of RADA’s operations and ensure that they are fulfilling their mandate to support farmers. This should include providing better market access, facilitating fair pricing negotiations, and offering financial and technical assistance to farmers.
The agricultural sector is a cornerstone of our nation’s economy, so it is imperative that we support our farmers, who work tirelessly to feed our nation. By addressing these concerns, you will be taking a vital step towards ensuring the sustainability and prosperity of Jamaica’s agricultural industry.
SUZETTE REYNOLDS
sreynoldsja@gmail.com