Novel Planting Material / Germplasm introduced

In 2007, the Ministry of Agro Industry and Fisheries launched a comprehensive program for the development of the non-sugar agricultural sector entitled Strategic Options for Crop Diversification and Livestock 2007-2015. The definition of such a strategy had indeed become essential in view of the many changes brought about by the restructuring of the sugar sector, but also the need to review the Non-sugar Sector Strategic Plan (NSSSP) 2003-2007 and our food policy given namely our increasing reliance on imports. Consequently, the Strategic Plan 2016-2020 for the Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry Sectors has defined the national objectives to significantly increase food and agricultural production in a competitive and sustainable manner through innovative production methods and novel products development while opening access to new markets.

The NPPO is facilitating the introduction of elite planting material and germplasm like macadamia seeds from South Africa, in vitro anthurium from Netherlands, grafted grapes from France, cocoa scions from Madagascar, rose plantlets from India, France and South Africa, Apple, Pear, Kiwi, Plum and Cherry grafted plants, berries like goji berries, raspberries, blueberries, youngberries and gooseberries plants from France and  Zinziber bulbs from France.