MALF and CABI Host Regional Consultation on Safe and Sustainable Agriculture

Port of Spain, Trinidad – The Regional Consultation Meeting of CABI Member Countries in the Americas and the Caribbean, hosted collaboratively by the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries and the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI), officially commenced yesterday (Tuesday 16^th September, 2025) with an Opening Ceremony at the Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre.

Held under the theme “Working in partnership for a safe and sustainable future” the three-day event brings together representatives of CABI Member Countries, regional and international organisations, senior government officials, researchers and other key stakeholders.

The consultation provides a platform for dialogue on some of the most pressing challenges facing agriculture including pest and disease management, invasive species, food safety, pesticide risk reduction and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. It also seeks to strengthen partnerships and identify collaborative solutions that protect livelihoods, safeguard ecosystems and build resilience across the region’s food systems.

In his Welcome Remarks, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to advancing safe and sustainable agricultural practices stating, “The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is taking decisive steps to strengthen food safety and sustainable agricultural practices. The Research Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries will soon introduce Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) testing with newly acquired equipment to carry out pesticide residue testing for a wide range of chemicals. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that agricultural produce meets the highest safety standards.”

Additionally, he noted that in collaboration with CABI, the Ministry has adopted the use of Novacrid, a bio-pesticide, for locust control. This sustainable approach exemplifies the kind of innovation and partnership needed to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides while protecting both crops and ecosystems.

Dr. Daniel Elger, CABI’s Chief Executive Officer, also addressed the gathering, commending the collaborative efforts within the region and emphasising the importance of innovative and science based approaches to strengthening food and nutrition security.

The meeting will feature technical sessions, panel discussions and country reports, culminating in a field visit to the Nariva Swamp, Trinidad and Tobago’s largest freshwater wetland and a designated Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.

The outcomes of the consultation are expected to guide regional action and inform CABI’s continued work with its Member Countries in advancing agricultural development and sustainability.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries remains committed to working alongside CABI and other regional and international partners to build a safe, sustainable and resilient agricultural sector. Through collaboration, innovation and capacity building, the Ministry will continue to support farmers, protect consumers and safeguard the environment in pursuit of long term food and nutrition security.

 

 

 

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