Dear Editor,
In alignment with the ecotourism and green energy strategy, a focus on organic farming and the rearing of organic livestock are not only complementary to this strategy, but also a key potential driver of economic growth.
Currently the organic food industry is experiencing higher growth than the traditional fertiliser and chemical-heavy produced food industry. Also the organic food industry is over US billion in annual sales with the USA representing close to US billion of those sales, according to the Organic Trade Association (OTA).
The profit margin of these organic products is higher than those of traditionally produced goods. As there is currently a premium placed on the health benefits of consuming goods that are naturally produced free of chemical fertilisers.
Guyana has the advantage of having virgin land that could be dedicated to such production and quickly prepared to enter into such a market venture. In addition, the recent closure of the Wales Sugar Estate and interest in the diversification of the revenue streams of GuySuCo, offers an opportunity to enter into organic food production. Some estimates have identified a three-year waiting period for the land to rid itself of the chemicals from previous crops in order for the new chemical free crops to be certified organic by the USA.
Large grocery outlets and specialised grocery stores are key access points for establishing lucrative contracts prior to full scale investment. The current trend for organic produce in these stores is present, and the development and transition of their product offering supports this trend.
Participation in the organic food industry will not only add increased profit margins and growth to the agriculture sector, but it will also allow ecotourists to have a full immersion nature experience, while enjoying the additional health benefits, such a green and sustainable economy. This will also help ensure the continuation of the healthy lifestyle of the Guyanese people.
Best regards,
Jamil Changlee
