December 7, 2023

Arosa and Jamaica Pig Farmers' Association launch campaign to boost pork industry

Arosa Limited, in partnership with the Jamaica Pig Farmers' Association (JPFA), has initiated the "Pork Jamaica" campaign to strengthen support for the local pork industry, Jamaica Observer reported.

The campaign, launched at Jamaica's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, aims to enhance the sustainability and international competitiveness of local pork while also promoting it to local households.

Stewart Jacobs, general manager of Arosa Limited, emphasised the commitment to encouraging local farmers to develop superior breeds and stock, ultimately achieving better and more cost-effective results.

He highlighted that 95% of the pork meat used by Arosa is locally sourced, expressing pride in continuing to assist local farmers through this value-added campaign. Jacobs believes that the "Pork Jamaica" initiative can successfully elevate the standard of swine farming in Jamaica, making local pork sustainable and globally competitive.

Franklin Witter, Jamaica's Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, said it is important to grow the swine industry to make pork more affordable for Jamaicans.

Jacobs highlighted challenges faced by swine farmers in Jamaica, including feed availability issues due to conflicts in Ukraine and Russia, major competitors like chicken, and a lack of consumer awareness about the nutritional benefits of pork.

Despite these challenges, Jacobs acknowledged various initiatives and government programs supporting local swine farmers, such as tax exemptions for importing young pigs, reasonable prices for feed, assistance in infrastructure development, and training programmes.

-      Jamaica Observer