Egg farmers appeal being heard

Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Honourable Franklin Witter, is assuring egg farmers that their call for the removal of the General Consumption Tax (GCT) on eggs is being heard by the Ministry.

"I know this issue is close to your hearts, and rightfully so. You have consistently and passionately advocated for the removal of GCT, and I assure you that your voice is being heard," he said.

Witter was addressing the 23rd annual general meeting of the Jamaica Egg Farmers Association, which was held at the Almond Tree Restaurant in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, on Wednesday.

"I know that it can be a challenge for us as a Ministry. As you know, anything that has to do with tax exemptions really is an issue for the Ministry of Finance," he said.

He underscored that the GCT removal would be beneficial to the farmers, as it would create a "ripple effect" that touches every household.

"Lower prices at the retail level would encourage higher consumption. The consumers would buy more, and the farmers would produce more, and that's a win-win for everyone. Minister Green and I are continuing representation to the Ministry of Finance to address that issue," Witter said.

He commended the egg farmers for their resilience in recovering from the effects of Hurricane Beryl, which affected the island in July of last year.

"Like other areas of the farming community, our egg farmers faced operational disruption and production challenges. Your determination to recover quickly underscored the importance of this sector to our nation's food security and economic stability," Witter said.

"Eggs are very central to the lives of families across the world. Therefore, despite the challenges posed by natural disasters such as Hurricane Beryl, we must strive to remain self-sufficient in meeting our nation's demands. It is this resilience and dedication that will help us to produce even more eggs to meet the increased national demand," he added.

Mr. Witter pointed out that Jamaicans consume an average of about one and a half eggs per week, which is up from one in previous years, adding that the Ministry intends to increase that number.

"The Ministry's target is to increase this to an average of two eggs a week over the next three years, with a long-term vision of exceeding that to three eggs a week. Therefore, if we are going to realise that goal, we must remain focused in terms of our resilience," he said.

- JIS

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