Last Updated on April 27, 2025, 8:53 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Trinidad and Tobago: As the polling day approaches near in Trinidad and Tobago, UNC has outlined a detailed agenda focusing on revolutionizing the agricultural industry and making huge strides in its progress. The detailed plan outlines the enhancements in the agriculture sector and ensuring food security across the island.
While sharing the detailed plan in their minifesto, UNC claimed that they are laying a groundwork for a self-sufficient future, one where farmers are supported, rural communities are empowered, and citizens have reliable access to affordable and nutritious food.
The party highlighted that their vision is to have real solutions for sustainable growth, and long-term resilience.
“It’s about strengthening our economy, reducing import dependency, and securing our nation’s future from the ground up,” the party stated while sharing their plan.
UNC criticises current administration for their contribution to agriculture
The opposition party of Trinidad and Tobago didn’t hold back in criticising the ruling party for their contribution to the agriculture sector. UNC blamed PNM for years of neglection and underinvestment which has created several issues in the economic development of the country. According to UNC, under PNM’s leadership, agriculture was sidelined leading to a heavy reliance on food imports.
The party also pointed out that the nation’s imports over 85% of its food is costing taxpayers more than $6 billion annually. UNC claimed that this is unsustainable and a risk to the national food security.
UNC’s vision to boost the agriculture sector: Key targets
Looking ahead, UNC promises to transform the agriculture sector by setting up the following targets which they claim are achievable through strategic leadership and investment.
- Generating $1 billion in agricutural exports.
- Reducing the national food import bill by $2 billion.
- Raise agriculture’s contribution to the national GDP to 5%.
- Create thousands of green jobs.
- Open new export markets.
- Secure Trinidad and Tobago’s food future.
Strategic Measures to Revitalize Agriculture
To achieve this transformation, the UNC has proposed a series of ten strategic steps:
- Resolving Historic Injustices- Addressing the long-standing issues faced by farmers.
- Unlocking Land for Agricultural Growth- Making more land available for farming.
- Strengthening Infrastructure and Water Management- Improving essential services for agriculture.
- Boosting Farmer Security and Incentives- Ensuring farmers are protected and adequately rewarded.
- Combating Agricultural Crime- Taking serious steps to protect farmers and their property.
- Modernizing Farming and Training- Introducing advanced technologies and training programs.
- Reviving Strategic Agricultural Industries- Rebuilding key sectors critical to food security.
- Expanding Exports and Value-Added Agriculture- Encouraging the production of goods for both local use and export.
- Launching the ‘Buy Local, Grow Local’ Campaign- Promoting local consumption and production.
- Global Partnerships for Local Innovation- Partnering internationally to bring the latest agricultural advancements home.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
