Cuban Minister of Agriculture Ydael Pérez Brito presented investment proposals. Aimed at developing coffee and honey production in Rome this Tuesday, within the framework of the World Food Forum.
Pérez Brito highlighted the potential to increase value-added, boost production, and access international markets for these commodities. He noted that the country possesses fertile land and producer expertise. As well as opportunities to expand both sectors. Despite facing limitations linked to low productivity, climate change, an aging rural population, and insufficient availability of inputs.
He also pointed out the impact of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States. He stated that this blockade has intensified and, over the past year. It has been compounded by energy restrictions that hinder producers’ access to fuel and other resources necessary for their work.
Against this backdrop, he underscored the importance of promoting investments and financing that would enable the Cuban agricultural sector. Not only to withstand these challenges but also to develop and progress.
Regarding honey, he explained that Cuba currently exports it as a raw material in bulk containers. Consequently, there is room to increase processing and market higher value-added products. Thereby improving prices and raising income for investors and producer families.
The minister highlighted the organic nature of Cuban honey and the conditions of the national beekeeping industry. Which achieved a record production of over 10,000 tons in 2021—a milestone mentioned during his presentation.
He added that there are areas with the potential to expand apiaries and increase production volumes. Regarding coffee, he identified opportunities involving idle or underutilized land. Also the establishment of new plantations, the utilization of foothill areas, and the modernization of production chains.
He also highlighted the potential for developing premium coffees, improving traceability, and expanding access to international markets.
Pérez Brito emphasized that existing joint ventures serve as a proven example of the possibilities for collaborating with foreign capital and accessing higher-value markets.
As part of the case for attracting investment, he cited the economic and legal reforms approved in Cuba. Noting that 162 out of the 176 measures directly impact the agricultural sector.
Among these, he mentioned new legislation on agricultural and forestry land that provides for usufruct rights. As well as partnership models involving cooperatives, producers, and foreign companies.
He also referred to the possibility of establishing direct contracts between investors and producers.
The minister also addressed measures aimed at facilitating the import of inputs. Including the elimination of import tariffs and wholesale taxes on sales to producers, alongside mechanisms to streamline these processes.
Furthermore, he acknowledged the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Whose geospatial platform has helped identify areas with investment potential. Both for coffee production and for locating favorable zones for beekeeping.
The head of the Ministry of Agriculture stated that developing both sectors could boost rural family incomes, transform communities, and help curb migration to cities.
With information from Prensa Latina
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