Robert Thompson (2nd left), director, CNET Group Inc., and Dermon Spence (3rd left), Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries (MICAF), sign memorandum of understanding for the development of a framework for the establishment of the OUTAONE Agro-Economic Zone Project at the Ministry’s Hope Gardens complex in St. Andrew on March 4, 2019. The signing was witnessed by the Hon. J.C. Hutchinson(right), Minister without Portfolio, MICAF; and Errol Bailey (left), director, CNET Group Inc. Assisting with the proceedings is Courtney Cole (standing), Chief Technical Director for Special Projects, MICAF.
A memorandum of understanding aimed at putting in place a framework for the establishment of OUTAONE Agro-Economic Zone Project was signed by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries (MICAF) with CNET Group Inc. today (March 4) at the Ministry’s Hope Gardens complex in St. Andrew.
Speaking at the signing, Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. J.C. Hutchinson, welcomed the initiative, stating that it signalled an important step in structuring the agricultural sector.
“One of the problems stifling the growth of agriculture in Jamaica is the lack of markets for farmers’ crops,” said Minister Hutchinson.
This, he said, could be addressed through the establishment of agro-economic zones that are strategically located across the island, where all the farmers’ produce would be marketed.
Under the MOU, CNET Group Inc. will provide a HACCP, GAP-Certified multi-operational agriculture complex, an ultra-modern certified microbiology laboratory, packaging, value-added processing, commercial cold storage and service rental facilities.
Other services to be provided by CNET Group will include Market Research and Development, Export Business Development, Modern Farming Training, Farming Finance, Marketing, Distribution and Logistics Support.
In facilitating the implementation of this project, the Ministry will provide the lands necessary for the project by way of lease, ensure suitability of government -enrolled farmers for the OUTAONE Agro-Economic Zone Project, adherence of farmers to quotas set by CNET, facilitate access to resources/assistance as needed by CNET as it relates to the OUTAONE Agro-Economic Zone Project, international linkages and market support.
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The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce is described as Jamaica's "Business Ministry." It's mandate is to lead the development of policies that will create growth and jobs, while achieving social inclusion and consumer protection. The Ministry, working its stakeholders is primarily responsible for business policy development, monitoring and evaluation, while giving direction and oversight to a cluster of implementing departments and agencies.
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