Sustainable Agriculture in Mauritius
Agriculture in Mauritius is experiencing a true revolution with the rise of sheltered farms, an initiative aligned with government policy aimed not only at stimulating innovation in the agricultural sector but also at promoting sustainable agriculture. The latter emphasizes self-sufficiency and local production of fruits and vegetables, essential for the island’s food security. Since the launch of this initiative, the sheltered agriculture program led by the Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (FAREI) has attracted growing interest within the agricultural community.
The FAREI Program: Building Greenhouses to Support the Traditional Agriculture
Over the last two years, the program has seen 59 planters benefit from substantial assistance, reflecting FAREI’s commitment to financing the construction of modern and functional greenhouses. With a dedicated budget of 15.9 million rupees, these infrastructures not only strengthen the production capacities of farmers but also introduce them to protected agriculture techniques. This method has the advantage of significantly reducing the carbon footprint of traditional agriculture by minimizing the use of insecticides and pesticides.
FAREI, acting under the auspices of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security, processed more than 200 applications during this period, a figure that demonstrates the enthusiasm of farmers for this innovative program. The objective is to modernize Mauritian agriculture and make it more resilient to climatic and environmental challenges.
An ambitious Recovery Plan for Agricultural Production: A Recommendation to Farmers
The budget for the 2022/23 fiscal year introduced an ambitious recovery plan to further encourage fruit and vegetable production through attractive subsidies. This plan plans to cover up to 50% of the cost, with a ceiling of 500,000 rupees, for the purchase of a first sheltered farm dedicated to hydroponics and also for expansion through the acquisition of a second structure. The VAT exemption on these purchases represents a significant additional benefit for farmers, thereby reducing financial barriers to entry.
For the current year, a budget of 50 million rupees has been allocated to this program. The objective is to encourage a growing number of farmers to adopt these environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Currently, FAREI is reviewing more than 50 applications under this grant program. The targeted beneficiaries are planters registered with the Small Planters Welfare Fund (SPWF), engaged in the agro-industrial sector and producing high-value horticultural and food crops on a minimum area of 0.5 acres.
This initiative is part of a global approach to sustainable development and food security. It reflects Mauritius’ commitment to promoting innovative and ecological agriculture, capable of responding to the current and future challenges of the sector.
Source: https://www.wazaa.mu/news/latest-stories/agriculture-des-subventions-allou%C3%A9es-pour-la-construction-de-serres
