A House bill is calling for the extension of the incentives and funding to all livestock and crop farmers to improve food security.
House Bill No. 11-59-6 said the incentive and funding would help livestock and crop farmers in Palau to develop the domestic market and assist them with start-up businesses.
“The Olbiil Era Kelulau finds that a fundamental goal of the national government is to develop the agricultural market and economy of the Republic of Palau.”
The bill also aims to provide people with affordable and locally grown products.
In 2019 a law established the Palau Livestock Fund which requires the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environment ( MAFE) to establish incentive programs for the local production of pork, poultry, and seafood.
The bill wants the dame support extended to crop farmers.
The bill now wants to establish a Palau Crop Fund that will serve as assistance to local farmers, with the funding being sourced from 1 percent tax revenue from alcoholic beverages.
The bill also seeks positions to be created within the ministry such as Crop Sales Broker and Pesticide Specialist
The OEK said it is aware that farmers are challenged with invasive species and pets in crops that hinder production. (Island Times)
Palau Crop Fund eyed
