Dear Editor,
Agriculture is still the backbone of the Guyana economy. It is the largest employer of labour and the largest source of foreign exchange earnings for the country.
While it is true that within recent years the contribution of the mining industry has been substantial, agriculture is still the dominant sector in terms of employment opportunities and foreign exchange earnings.
Guyana has a comparative advantage when it comes to agricultural production with its large expanse of fertile land and a hard working contingent of farmers. Indeed we are well positioned to meet the food needs of the entire region, including the large North American market.
The importance of agriculture to regional economies was highlighted during the Agriculture Week observances in Guyana which was attended by high level personnel from Guyana and other countries. With a growing population globally, the demand for food is sure to increase, which provides agro-based economies like ours to pick up the slack.
Our farmers must be commended for rising to the challenge to meet the food demands of the country and for satisfying a fair share of the regional market.
The supporting role played by NARI and the Agriculture Ministry is also commendable. Hydar Ally