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Plantain producers participate in export forum within framework of DR-CAFTA

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Nicaraguan Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Alliance for CAFTAction held a forum for 200 plantain producers in Rivas on CAFTA-Dr advantages for exporting this product.

The producers received  information on access to markets, rules of origin, requirements for satisfying U.S. market demands as well as perspectives and opportunities available under the CAFTA-DR free trade agreement.


SUPPORT FOR SECTOR

USAID began working with producers in Rivas in 2004 through a project for improving plantain production in Nicaragua developed by Michigan State University.  Through this project, Nicaraguan plantains are being exported to the United States for the first time.  USAID provided financing for three packing plants and technical assistance that has generated over  $2.7 million in sales from May/2004 to June/2006.

The USAID Program for CAFTAction seeks to create alliances through the Central American private sector to promote growth in commerce as a means of fighting poverty and strengthening the productivity and competitiveness of Central American products and services.


RESULTS TO DATE

• Income for families benefiting from the plantain project increased by 75%.
• Over 400 new jobs were generated in two years.