Dear Editor,
SINCE the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) assumed office, I have been encouraged daily to speak on the developments, more so, the Ministry of Agriculture which I avidly follow.

I was particularly intrigued by the focus on ginger production and by extension the expansion of the spice industry by the Agri Ministry, taking into consideration that it has been dubbed a multibillion-dollar industry internationally.

Guyana recently recorded a 22,212 tonne increase in ginger production in 2023 with 350 acres cultivated from August 2022 to May 2023, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.

I take note of the fact that investment and support were given to Regions One and Three to have large-scale cultivation of spices; this I would also like to see in all the other regions but is a commendable effort.

There is a huge demand for spices with a prediction by 2026 the global spices and seasoning market will skyrocket, a trend we are already seeing taking place. This rising trend will seek to boost market value by $27.4 Billion.

The increasing preference pushes the demand for these versatile products in the market for unique cuisines the fast-growing fast-food economy and the changing preferences of consumers for healthier and more natural products. Hence, it is commendable the focus on increasing the production of ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, black pepper, and more is high on the agenda for the ministry.

Increasingly, consumers like myself are opting to consume and incorporate healthier options and I am happy that farmers are being guided to expand the variety of products they produce and sell and venture into new areas by growing these high-value crops. Budget 2024 presented and articulated by the Minister responsible for Finance Dr Ashni Singh is a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing agriculture in every area.

With this being the largest budget in history we saw $100 million budgeted to support the production of citrus and spices, this is excellent news! It is difficult to criticise when it comes to what was taken into consideration with this budget, the transformation continues under the government of the day!

Yours Sincerely,
Nicholas Seemangal