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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September 11, 2025: – Chaguanas, Trinidad – The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries wishes to assure the public that there has been no recent increase in cases of bat biting or rabies among animals in Trinidad and Tobago.

Incidents of bat biting have historically affected livestock in rural farming communities where nocturnal activity by hematophagous bats, commonly known as vampire bats, may occur. In Trinidad, vampire bats are the vector for rabies. There has been no increase in reports of suspected rabies cases within the animal population and all suspected cases are promptly investigated and addressed.

Veterinary officers from the Ministry’s Animal Production and Health Division and the Anti-Rabies Unit continuously monitor the national rabies disease status and respond quickly to reports of bat biting from farmers and other animal owners. When cases are reported, affected persons are provided with Post Exposure Prophylaxis, a treatment to prevent rabies, in collaboration with the Veterinary Public Health Department of the Ministry of Health. Investigations are conducted in surrounding premises to determine whether bat biting is occurring in other locations.

The Anti-Rabies Unit provides guidance on bat-proofing residences and measures to prevent bat biting. Bats are trapped and safely removed and further control measures are carried out at nearby roosts to manage the vampire bat population. All animals which have been bitten or are at risk, including other pets in the household or herd members of livestock, are vaccinated against rabies. Ring vaccination activities are also conducted for all at-risk animals within at least a 10 kilometre radius of any premises with suspected cases of rabies.

The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any unusual behaviour in animals, evidence of bat bites, or suspected rabies cases immediately to the nearest County Veterinary Office. Early detection and intervention are critical in preventing the spread of disease and safeguarding both animal and public health.

County Veterinary Offices Contact Information:

• St. George East (Wallerfield): 220-6253 ext. 5078
• St. George West: 662-5986
• Caroni: 671-1861
• St Patrick: 647-8871
• Victoria Nariva Mayaro: 655-8410 or 655-3428
• St. Andrews: 668-2712
• National Animal Disease Control Centre (NADC): 693-1682

The Ministry remains committed to ensuring the health and safety of the nation’s livestock and population and urges full cooperation from the public as prevention and control efforts continue.

 

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August 14, 2025:- Chaguanas, Trinidad – The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries wishes to provide an update on the recent Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) outbreak. The humane depopulation of all pigs at the affected farm has been successfully completed, with disposal carried out at a secure location in line with strict biosecurity protocols.

This exercise was undertaken in close collaboration with relevant authorities to contain the outbreak and protect both animal health and the local pork industry.

“The swift and coordinated response to this outbreak demonstrates the commitment of all our partners to protecting the health of our livestock and the viability of our local pork industry,” said Dr. Lisa Musai, Chief Veterinary Officer (Ag.). “Through careful planning and strict adherence to biosecurity measures, the affected farm has now been fully depopulated. The Ministry also wants to assure the public that local pork remains safe for consumption.”

Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries also extended his sincere appreciation to all agencies, stakeholders and especially the affected farmer, for their professionalism and dedication during this process. “The Ministry remains committed to ensuring the health and safety of our livestock and to supporting our farmers in maintaining a resilient and productive industry.”

To date, the outbreak has been confirmed on a single farm in North Trinidad. Decontamination procedures are underway and are being conducted by Sanitec Ltd. Surveillance and testing activities remain ongoing. Farmers are urged to remain vigilant and to immediately report any signs of illness to the PRRS Hotline at 280-7945.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries reiterates its commitment to protecting animal health, supporting farmers and safeguarding the local agricultural sector.

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August 13, 2025:- Chaguanas, Trinidad: Yesterday (August 12, 2025), the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, in collaboration with Caroni (1975) Limited, hosted a Caroni Lease Distribution Ceremony at the Sundar Popo (Sundarlal Popo Bahora) Theatre, Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA), San Fernando, where 193 recipients from the Picton I Site under the Caroni (1975) Limited Voluntary Separation of Employment Programme (VSEP) received their long-awaited leases.

This landmark event marks significant progress in delivering on the Government’s pledge to finalise outstanding land entitlements under the VSEP, ensuring qualified beneficiaries, many of them former Caroni employees and cane farmers, can now secure their tenure and contribute to the nation’s agricultural and economic growth. It also reflects the State’s commitment to honour severance and pension obligations while facilitating the productive use of these lands.

In delivering the feature address, The Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, said: “Today, we do more than remember; we repair and rebuild. We will put land where promises are…security where there was suspense…opportunity where there was delay. This is not the end of a fight; it is the continuation of a commitment I made in Parliament in 2005 to stand with Caroni’s people until every rightful claim is honoured and every family stands on firm ground.”

Also speaking at the event, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, described the distribution as a strategic step towards securing livelihoods and boosting agricultural productivity, stating: “Our Government stands firmly on its conviction that agriculture is the backbone of the economy… Today’s distribution is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to placing these lands in the hands of those who will care for them, work them and use them to build stronger communities.”

The Honourable Saddam Hosein, Minister of Legal Affairs and Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, whose tireless efforts were instrumental in the success of the distribution, echoed these sentiments, stating, “Today, this caring government acknowledges your contribution towards Trinidad and Tobago, and this administration, led by Kamla Persad-Bessessar, has placed this as a priority project under our manifesto.” His remarks reinforced the resolve to bring closure to VSEP beneficiaries and ensure the promise of land ownership translates into opportunities for families, communities, and the national economy.

The ceremony underscored the power of collaboration between Government agencies, communities, and stakeholders in advancing equitable access to land. The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries remains committed to securing land tenure as a catalyst for rural revitalisation, national food security, and a more resilient Trinidad and Tobago.

 

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August 05, 2025:- Chaguanas, Trinidad – The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) confirms that a single pig farm in Trinidad and Tobago has tested positive for Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). PRRS is a contagious viral disease that affects pigs but poses no risk to human health. Pork remains safe for consumption and there is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted to people.

Following confirmation of the disease, the Ministry immediately activated its national emergency response plan aimed at containing the outbreak, supporting the affected farmer and safeguarding the long-term viability of the pork industry. The current policy guiding the Ministry’s response is focused on disease eradication at the infected farm. Plans are actively underway to operationalise a humane depopulation and carcass disposal exercise in accordance with international best practice.

Dr. Lisa Musai, Chief Veterinary Officer (Ag.), emphasises, “Our team has been working diligently to contain the outbreak and support the affected farmer while ensuring the safety of the national pork supply. We are guided by science, international best practice and a strong commitment to protecting both animal health and public confidence in the sector.”

The planned depopulation exercise will involve the humane slaughter of all pigs on the affected farm. This operation is being coordinated by the Ministry in consultation with relevant authorities and agencies to ensure that it is carried out in accordance with internationally accepted animal welfare standards. The rate and timing of depopulation will depend on the availability and suitability of a disposal site for the carcasses.

While on-site burial is the recommended method for carcass disposal, an environmental assessment determined that the affected farm is not suitable for this approach. The Ministry has since explored several alternative locations and continues to engage with key agencies to identify a viable disposal site. Inter-agency collaboration remains ongoing to support the safe and timely execution of this critical phase of the response.

During this period, the Ministry has intensified national surveillance efforts to monitor the health status of the country’s swine population. To date, 345 diagnostic samples have been collected from 36 pig farms across Trinidad and Tobago, with a focus on high-density pig farming areas. Efforts are also being made to update the national pig registry and strengthen disease tracking through detailed mapping of pig farms.

Engagement with stakeholders has remained a top priority throughout the response. The Ministry continues to work directly with pig farmers, abattoirs and processors, offering veterinary guidance on biosecurity measures and animal health management. Additionally, discussions are ongoing to establish a compassionate relief framework to support affected farmers during this difficult time.

At the regional and international levels, the Ministry has engaged in technical cooperation with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and veterinary experts from the University of the West Indies (UWI) to ensure that the local response is informed by global best practice. As part of its long-term strategy, the Ministry is reviewing protocols for the importation of live animals and genetic material, exploring the feasibility of PRRS vaccination or eradication programmes and promoting sustainable herd health initiatives to build greater resilience within the pork industry.

The Ministry remains resolute in its commitment to protecting animal health, ensuring food security and supporting the well-being of livestock farmers. Through scientific collaboration, coordinated action and transparent communication, the Ministry aims not only to manage this outbreak effectively but to reinforce the foundation of a more sustainable and secure pork industry in Trinidad and Tobago.

To report suspected cases of PRRS or seek guidance, members of the public and farming community are encouraged to contact the Ministry’s PRRS Hotline at 280-7945. Updates on the situation will continue to be shared via the Ministry’s website at www.agriculture.gov.tt and through its official social media platforms.

 

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June 25, 2025:- On Tuesday 24th June, 2025, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, distributed Letters of Appointment to members of the Board of Directors of the Palo Seco Agricultural Enterprises Limited (PSAEL) during a brief ceremony held at the Ministry’s Head Office in Chaguanas.

PSAEL, a state enterprise under the purview of the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, is mandated to manage and develop state lands for agricultural and other productive purposes, particularly in rural communities. The newly appointed board will be responsible for guiding the organisation’s strategic direction and ensuring alignment with the Ministry’s goals for sustainable land management and national food security.

The members of the new Board of Directors are as follows:

• Danny Maharaj – Chairman
• Rajiv Chaitoo – Deputy Chairman
• Shanty Boodram – Director
• Ambereesh Ram – Director
• Neil Ramsingh – Director

In addressing the newly appointed board, Minister Ratiram congratulated the members and encouraged them to work collaboratively to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of PSAEL’s operations. He noted, “Your appointment is not just a title; it is a call to action.” Underscoring PSAEL’s role in national development, he added, “Your role is more than land management; it is about strengthening agriculture and building sustainable communities.”

The members of the board also expressed their deep sense of commitment to the organisation’s mandate and their enthusiasm to contribute meaningfully to its success. They emphasised their readiness to work together as a cohesive team to drive innovation, enhance operational performance and support the Ministry’s broader vision for a resilient and self-sufficient agricultural sector.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries extends congratulations to the new Board of Directors and looks forward to a productive partnership as PSAEL continues to play a critical role in the country’s agricultural transformation.

 

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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 20^th 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.

 

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June 17, 2025: – Yesterday (Monday 16^th June, 2025), the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) hosted the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) Accountability and Agricultural Outlook Dialogue at its Head Office in Chaguanas.

The event brought together Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries; His Excellency Peter Cavendish, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Delegation of the European Union; His Excellency Gustavo Pandiani, Ambassador of the Argentine Republic; senior officials from MALF; representatives from IICA and key private sector stakeholders.

This important dialogue provided a platform for sharing progress on agricultural development initiatives and discussing the outlook for food security, climate resilience and sustainable rural development in Trinidad and Tobago. The Ministry acknowledges the valuable technical support and partnership provided by IICA in advancing the country’s agricultural sector.

The Ministry highlights IICA’s contribution to climate resilience efforts, including the training of MALF officers in greenhouse gas inventory management and regional early warning systems. Strategic industry development was bolstered through initiatives like queen bee rearing training and cocoa cadmium mitigation, while upgraded tools and digital platforms have improved operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making within MALF.

Minister Ratiram emphasised the importance of unity and innovation in overcoming current global challenges stating “Let us embrace the challenges before us not with fear but with creativity, solidarity and a shared determination to build a food system that is sustainable, inclusive and resilient.” He further highlighted the critical role of collaboration saying “Our success as a Ministry depends on sustained collaboration with agencies like IICA, FAO, CARDI, CRC and of course our local producers, researchers and innovators.”

Also delivering remarks at the event, Ms. Diana Francis, IICA Representative, Trinidad and Tobago, reinforced the power of meaningful partnerships in achieving results “The accomplishments shared today were only possible because of genuine collaboration, particularly with the Ministry and our partners across the sector. Working together benefits all of us, and proves that even without large budgets, technical cooperation, shared vision and human talent can drive real transformation.”

The Dialogue featured presentations from IICA representatives, diplomats and private sector stakeholders on key themes including agribusiness development, food safety, biodiversity, water management and agri-technology.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries remains committed to fostering such engagements that promote transparency, cooperation and innovation towards building a robust and resilient agricultural sector for Trinidad and Tobago.

 

 

 

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