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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May 18, 2025 :- The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) has taken another bold step towards strengthening national food security with the distribution of certified, high-yielding disease resistant rice seeds from the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. The symbolic distribution ceremony took place on Tuesday 20^th May, 2025, at the Central Experiment Station, Caroni North Bank Road, Centeno. It marks a key milestone in Phase I of the Revitalization and Modernization of the Rice Industry in Trinidad and Tobago.

Under this initiative, the Ministry successfully procured 100 tonnes of high-quality rice seed from Guyana for the 2025 rice growing season. The seeds are expected to support the commercial planting of approximately 2,000 acres of land across Trinidad and Tobago. This strategic intervention is part of the Government’s commitment to reducing the national food import bill, improving local agricultural resilience and increasing rice self-sufficiency.

Delivering the feature address, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, emphasized the national significance of the initiative. “This Ministry is committed to supporting your productivity, your profitability and your peace of mind. More acreage. Higher yields. Better margins. Stronger communities. And yes, greater national food security. We must reach a point where local rice is not the exception on the shelf—it is the standard on the plate.”

The Minister credited strong regional partnerships, particularly with the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), for making the initiative possible. He also acknowledged the support of National Flour Mills (NFM) in helping to create a more stable and attractive market environment for local rice farmers.

Mr. Nigel Grimes, Project Coordinator at MALF, expressed that rice is a vital staple in Trinidad and Tobago and an integral part of national food security. He expressed, “This seed distribution marks another important step. With improved seed quality, increased acreage and strong support systems, we expect clear gains in yield and productivity.”

The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries remains committed to building a self-reliant, data-driven and competitive rice industry. Through multi-sectoral collaboration, infrastructure support and farmer engagement, this initiative is expected to revitalize an industry that was once central to Trinidad and Tobago’s agricultural economy.

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May 18, 2025:- The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) is actively responding to the ongoing adverse weather conditions impacting farmers across the country, following the Yellow Level Alert issued by the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service.

Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, is currently on the ground engaging with affected farming communities to assess the damage caused by heavy rainfall and flooding. These engagements form part of the Ministry’s coordinated Emergency Flood Response efforts aimed at providing targeted support to farmers and assessing the scope of agricultural damages.

MALF’s Engineering Division has mobilised teams and equipment to strategic locations including the Orange Grove Food Crop Project in Tacarigua, the Plum Mitan Project, and Aranguez South Food Basket since May 16, 2025. These teams are actively working to alleviate flooding by extracting excess water, dredging waterways, and clearing channels and tributaries to improve drainage and reduce further land damage and crop loss.

The Ministry is working collaboratively with the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government and the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, who are also providing support in various communities through additional equipment and manpower.

Minister Ratiram expressed, “It is regrettable that our farmers are facing these challenges. Our farmers are the backbone of this country’s food system and the Ministry remains committed to supporting them through this difficult time. We are doing everything possible to reduce their losses. When our farmers are affected, our national food security is also at risk.”

The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as conditions evolve. Farmers are encouraged to remain in contact with County Extension Officers from their relevant County Offices and to report any urgent needs or challenges they may be facing.

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March  25, 2025:- The 25th Anniversary of the CARICOM Committee of Chief Veterinary Officers (CCCVOs) and the 6th Meeting of the CaribVET Steering Committee officially opened yesterday (Monday 24th March, 2025) at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad, bringing together over 100 veterinary, agricultural and health experts from across the Caribbean to strengthen regional animal health and food safety systems.

Delivering the feature address at the opening ceremony, the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, underscored the vital role of veterinary services in national and regional development. He used the platform to issue a stern warning to individuals involved in the illegal importation of animals, stating “those who are involved in the unlawful smuggling of animals into our country will feel the full brunt of the law. These actions not only threaten our food systems and animal health but also jeopardise the livelihoods of our citizens and public health.

Minister Hosein also emphasised the broader significance of the week’s proceedings, noting that: “This week is not only about the past 25 years—it is about shaping the next 25. We are building systems that our farmers, consumers, and future generations will depend on. Systems that will enable us to respond swiftly to a disease outbreak, negotiate trade agreements with confidence, and deliver nutritious, locally produced food to our people.”

Also speaking at the event was the Honourable Terrence Deyalsingh, Minister of Health, who emphasised the importance of adopting a One Health approach across the region. “Collaboration across sectors and disciplines through a One Health approach is a vital solution for addressing the complex health challenges facing our society,” said Minister Deyalsingh. “To prevent, detect and respond to emerging health challenges, all relevant sectors must collaborate in an integrated manner to achieve together, what no sector can achieve alone.”

Dr. the Honourable Amery Browne, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, also addressed the gathering, stating “Always remember—we are stronger together. You, the Chief Veterinary Officers, are a vital part of the success of our regional councils. I am honoured to be here to contribute in some small measure to your deliberations. Your success is CARICOM’s success. The pathogens do not really operate in silos—neither should we. Those who analyse wildlife and animal products collaborate closely across borders—so should we.”

Also in attendance were representatives from international organisations, including the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Caribbean Agriculture Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA) and the Caribbean Animal Health Network (CaribVET). Their involvement added valuable expertise and support to discussions on animal health, food safety and regional cooperation, helping to strengthen efforts to protect agriculture and public health in the Caribbean.

The week-long event will continue with a series of technical sessions focused on animal disease surveillance, One Health approaches, emergency preparedness and capacity building activities. The programme will also include a gala and awards ceremony to honour past and present contributors to regional veterinary services.

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries is proud to host this significant event and remains committed to supporting the collaborative work of the CCCVOs and CaribVET in strengthening the resilience and food security of the Caribbean.

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February 8, 2025:- The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, continues to make historic investments in the agricultural sector, with the largest-ever disbursement under the Agricultural Finance Support Programme (Agro-Incentive Grant). At the Cycle 8 Cheque Distribution Ceremony on February 7, 2025, Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries announced that this cycle allocated $11.2 million to 116 farmers, fisherfolk, and agro-entrepreneurs.

Since the programme’s launch in 2019, the government has provided approximately $42 million in grant funding to 435 recipients, supporting crop and livestock farmers, hydroponic and shade-house producers, agro-processors, and those in fisheries and forestry.

Delivering the feature address, the Honourable Stuart Young, S.C., Minister of Energy and Energy Industries and Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, highlighted the role of technology in modernizing agriculture, emphasizing that innovation and efficiency will be key to the future of food security.

Also speaking at the event was the Honourable Foster Cummings, Minister of Youth Development and National Service, who reaffirmed his Ministry’s collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries in empowering young people in agriculture. Through initiatives such as shade-house farming, aquaculture, and homestead programmes, young farmers are being equipped with the skills and resources to succeed.

Minister Hosein emphasized that the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries’ role extends beyond financial support, calling for increased engagement from Extension Officers to ensure that agricultural workers receive the technical expertise and guidance needed to thrive.

With over $42 million invested through the Agricultural Finance Support Programme, the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries remains committed to ensuring a modernized and expanding agricultural sector, strengthening food security and economic stability in Trinidad and Tobago.

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November 8, 2024:-  Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago – The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF), alongside partners from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), is currently conducting critical farm visits to pig farms across Trinidad and Tobago this week to collect samples as part of its African Swine Fever (ASF) preparedness and surveillance plan. This proactive effort underscores the Ministry’s commitment to protecting the country’s pork industry and ensuring food security.

With ASF threatening swine industries in the Caribbean, these visits aim to detect any early signs of the disease, which could have severe implications for food security and local livelihoods. At the opening of the training workshop which marked the beginning of the week’s activities, Senator the Honourable Avinash Singh, Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, emphasized, “Our strategic response to threats like African Swine Fever is rooted in measures that prioritize food security, farmer livelihoods, and economic stability.”

The Veterinarians and Animal health staff of the Ministry’s Animal Production and Health (APH) Division will not only be conducting surveillance activities across various local farms this week for ASF but will be continuing their surveillance efforts for Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). The data and samples collected will support early detection efforts and strengthen Trinidad and Tobago’s readiness against ASF and continue efforts to detect PRRS, ensuring that the nation’s pork supply chain remains secure and resilient.

This initiative highlights the Government’s leadership in safeguarding agriculture and the importance of international cooperation in addressing potential biosecurity threats. The Ministry encourages the public to stay informed and supportive of biosecurity measures, which are crucial for protecting the nation’s food resources.

For further updates on this project and its impact on the local agriculture sector, follow the Ministry’s social media channels or website agriculture.gov.tt.

 

 

 

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August 27, 2024:- Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago – On Monday August 26, 2024, Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, presented Letters of Appointment to the fourteen (14) members of the Food Security and Food Prices Committee.

 

The establishment of the Cabinet-appointed Committee, chaired by Ms. Nirmalla Debysingh, C.E.O. of the National Agricultural Marketing and Development Corporation (NAMDEVCO), is a significant move towards addressing the issue of rising food prices in Trinidad and Tobago and it is anticipated that the Committee would formulate effective solutions to address this growing concern.

 

Minister Hosein highlighted that this a pivotal step in Government’s commitment to ensuring access to affordable and nutritious food for all. He further indicated that “The challenges before us are daunting. Food inflation, exacerbated by global disruptions such as supply chain interruptions and geopolitical conflicts, has severely impacted our food security. Our reliance on imported food items, which costs us over TT$5 billion annually, further complicates this issue. This is compounded by rising global food prices and adverse weather conditions affecting agricultural productivity. The Food Prices Committee is not merely a response to these challenges but a strategic initiative to seek sustainable solutions.”

 

The Food Security and Food Prices Committee is comprised of experts in the fields of agriculture, economics, nutrition, trade and consumer advocacy, allowing for the multifaceted challenges posed by rising food prices to be addressed from various angles and stakeholders.

 

Cabinet-appointed Food Security and Food Prices Committee

 

Chairperson: 

Ms. Nirmalla Debysingh – Chief Executive Officer, NAMDEVCO

 

Vice Chairperson: 

Mr. Nigel Grimes – Technical Advisor, Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries

 

Members:

Ms. Ava Mahabir-Dass – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Industry

 

Mr. Andy Mendez – Supervisor (Ag.), Customs and Excise Division, Ministry of Finance

 

Mr. Hayden Hurdle – Accountant, Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago

 

Dr. Keisha Roberts – University of Trinidad and Tobago

 

Dr. Sharon D. Hutchinson – Faculty of Agriculture, University of the West Indies

 

Mr. Rajiv Diptee – Past President, Supermarket Association of Trinidad and Tobago

 

Mr. Vernon Persad – Supermarket Association of Trinidad and Tobago

 

Mr. Roger Roach – President, Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association

 

Mr. Kavi Panday – Chief Executive Officer, Massy Stores (Trinidad)

 

Ms. Siti Jones-Gordon – Head of Corporate Affairs, Nestle Trinidad and Tobago

 

Mr. Alpha Sennon – Agricultural Entrepreneur

 

Mr. Maxslon Roberts – Agricultural Entrepreneur (Tobago)

 

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