Puerto Rico launches agricultural incentives to double livestock production

The public meeting of the Economic Development, Essential Services, and Consumer Affairs Commission took place on August 4, 2021, focusing on agricultural incentives and production in Puerto Rico. The discussions highlighted the need for increased agricultural output to combat rising food prices and ensure food security for local families.

The meeting began with a proposal to redefine agricultural support from subsidies to incentives, emphasizing that farmers should increase their livestock numbers. The goal is to double production, particularly in the meat sector, where local output currently meets only 11% of total consumption. The Secretary of Agriculture outlined various programs aimed at improving production efficiency, including a new initiative for improved pasture planting, which is expected to enhance livestock yields.

A significant point of discussion was the existing Code of Incentives, which includes provisions for salary subsidies to support agricultural labor. The Secretary noted that the current approach to these subsidies would shift back to a traditional hourly reimbursement model, which aims to encourage employment in the agricultural sector. This change is pending approval from the Fiscal Oversight Board, with a virtual meeting scheduled for the following week to finalize the details.

The Secretary also addressed the challenges faced by the poultry industry, particularly in light of potential threats from diseases affecting livestock in neighboring regions. Plans to revitalize the poultry sector were discussed, including the potential reopening of processing plants that had previously been operational.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency of enhancing local agricultural production through strategic incentives and support programs. The Secretary expressed optimism about the upcoming initiatives and the importance of legislative backing to ensure the sustainability of these efforts. The commission plans to continue monitoring the implementation of these programs and their impact on food production in Puerto Rico.