The Government of Jamaica is rejecting recent proposals from the Opposition Spokesperson on Agriculture, Dr Dayton Campbell, as both outdated and impractical. 

The Government warns that these proposals, including imposing heavy taxes on imported foods and halting key imports without addressing production capacity, would result in unnecessary hardship for Jamaicans. 

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Floyd Green, described the Opposition’s plan to impose significant taxes on imported foods as ill-advised and harmful. 

“Jamaica’s importation policy is designed to supplement local production, ensuring affordability and accessibility for all Jamaicans,” said Minister Green. “Any such tax would drastically increase the cost of living and in a globalized economy governed by free trade agreements, it would invite retaliatory tariffs on our locally produced food. Such a move would jeopardize both local farmers and consumers alike.”

The proposal to cease the importation of onions and irish potatoes within two years without addressing production targets or capacity was also criticized as unrealistic and reckless. “The proposal to impose a ban without speaking to production numbers would clearly lead to significant shortages,” Green warned. “This would destabilize the market and drive up costs, placing additional financial burdens on Jamaicans.”

Green emphasized that modernization and mechanization of the agricultural sector are already well underway, thanks to the Government’s robust programmes. Among these is the Dairy Equipment Lease Programme, which provides farmers with affordable access to essential farming tools, thereby boosting productivity and reducing operational costs.

The Minister highlighted the Government’s achievements in recent years, including the procurement of tractors, harvesters, drones, and other vital equipment to enhance agricultural efficiency. Additionally, more tractors, motorized ploughs and other machinery are currently being procured as part of ongoing efforts to support local farmers. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has underscored these initiatives as pivotal in reducing Jamaica’s reliance on imports while bolstering local production.

The Government also pointed to its proven record in increasing production, particularly under the National Onion Programme. Between 2020 and 2023, the programme delivered 13,455 tonnes of onion, a stark contrast to the mere 3,813 tonnes produced during the Opposition’s tenure from 2012 to 2016. “The Opposition has no authority to speak on production numbers,” Green asserted. “The data shows clearly that this Government has taken meaningful steps to increase production and improve the livelihood of our farmers.” Despite attempts by the Opposition to distract and detract, the Government continues its efforts, which are focused on empowering farmers, stabilizing markets and ensuring long-term food security for all Jamaicans.