Farmers Generate $1 Billion in Sales via ALEX
By: , May 1, 2024
Photo: Adrian Walker
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, opens the 2024/25 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on April 30.The Full Story
Small-scale farmers have generated approximately $1 billion in sales via the Agri-Linkages Exchange (ALEX).
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, made the announcement in his 2024/25 Sectoral Debate in the House on April 30.
“We want to double that, and in my next presentation I will speak about the supply side, and the supply logistics hub, which I know you are interested in,” Mr. Bartlett said.
ALEX, which is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Tourism, through the Tourism Enhancement Fund, and the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), is the first online platform of its kind in the country.
It brings hoteliers into direct contact with the farmers and, in turn, reduces leakages and helps Jamaica retain more of the economic benefits of tourism.
These farmers, ranging from those with three-acre and five-acre lots to backyard growers, supply fresh produce to local hotels and restaurants.