JAMAICA | PNP Concerned Over Government's Plan to Divest AMC Facility

KINGSTON, Jamaica. April 17, 2024: The Opposition People’s National Party has expressed concern over the government’s plan to divest facilities at the Agricultural Marketing Corporation (AMC), which currently serves as an agricultural hub for many local farmers and entrepreneurs.

 proprietors using the facility have expressed apprehension about the lack of transparency surrounding the government's plans for divestment and the potential ramifications for the local agricultural sector. 

The AMC facility was visited this week by the Shadow Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Dayton Campbell; Shadow Minister of Investment, Trade and Global Logistics Anthony Hylton, MP, as well as Junior Shadow Spokesperson on Agriculture and Water Paul Blake, when they listened attentive to the proprietor’s concerns. 

"The opposition is deeply concerned about the government's plan to divest the Agricultural Marketing Corporation without proper consultation with stakeholders," said Dr Campbell. "It is unacceptable that proprietors have been left in the dark about the future of this vital facility."

The Opposition shadow minister, underlining the importance of agriculture as a key area for growth and development, stated that divesting assets like AMC is not the solution.

He emphasised the need for the government to focus on upgrading the facility to offer better services, making it more profitable and efficient for business. He also pointed out that the current situation, with only one of the cold storage facilities in operation, is leading to decreased productivity for those who rely on the facility.

Anthony Hylton echoed similar sentiments, sharing that the finances needed to upgrade/rebuild the facility can be made available through concessional funding and/or grant funds from bilateral sources to aid the export agricultural sector and not private high-priced financing, which will make the sector uncompetitive.

 According to the PNP, the Agricultural Marketing Corporation plays a crucial role in supporting our local agricultural industry and with its strategic location, has the potential to generate significant gains for our economy.”

The Opposition is therefore recommending that the government:

1. Upgrades the facility to offer enhanced services and infrastructure, 
2. Solarise the facility to reduce energy costs and promote sustainability, 
3. Repair and maintain the non-operational cold storage facilities,
4. Incorporate fumigation services to enhance the facility's capabilities.

The PNP further urges the government to prioritise the long-term interests of local farmers and entrepreneurs by engaging in transparent consultations and considering alternative solutions to divestment.

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