Media Releases
Minister Ratiram Reaffirms Trinidad and Tobago’s Commitment to Regional Food Security at CARICOM MTF Meeting
June 21, 2025: – Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, represented Trinidad and Tobago at the 19th Meeting of the CARICOM Ministerial Taskforce (MTF) on Food Production and Food Security, held via video conference on Friday 20th June, 2025.
The meeting, chaired by the Honourable Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture, Guyana, brought together CARICOM Ministers of Agriculture and senior officials to accelerate efforts to strengthen food systems across the region through the upcoming 25 by 2025+5 programme.
Delivering his first address to the MTF, Minister Ratiram reaffirmed Trinidad and Tobago’s full commitment to the regional food security agenda and pledged continued support for the 25 by 2025+5 goals. He expressed, “This is my maiden meeting as the newly appointed Minister of Agriculture for Trinidad and Tobago, and I am pleased to be part of this well-respected group of Ministers and technical officers. I renew our Government’s commitment to meeting the 25 by 2025+5 targets and to advancing agricultural development in the region.”
Highlighting the importance of risk mitigation for farmers, the Minister said, “We recognise the importance of mitigating risks faced by our farmers, especially weather-related impacts that threaten livelihoods and food security. He further added “Our Prime Minister, the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, S.C., has underscored the importance of agricultural insurance for farmers, and it is something I take seriously. I commit to giving due consideration to the Regional Insurance Product and will seek further guidance to ensure that we are fully informed.”
Minister Ratiram praised the collaborative spirit of the forum and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing cooperation with CARICOM institutions and Member States to advance food and nutrition security across the Caribbean.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries remains focused on strengthening Trinidad and Tobago’s agricultural capacity, expanding sustainable production and building partnerships that support the development of a modern, inclusive and resilient food system.
– END –
