The government on Sunday launched a new initiative to explore possible collaborations with tourist resorts to increase opportunities for the local agricultural sector.
A team from the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, led by the Minister Dr Mariyam Mariya visited the Crossroads Maldives to learn about its farming and maintenance techniques of the resort’s plants and trees.
Most tourist resorts in the Maldives have invested in growing a host of vegetables, fruits and herbs needed for their kitchens.
The Ministry said the main purpose of the visit was to identify areas where cooperation between the resorts and the government could be enhanced. During the visit, the Minister inquired about farming techniques employed by Crossroads in growing its own vegetables and fruits.
Minister Dr Mariya observed the various methods and techniques employed by the resort to grow its own produce and maintain the island’s greenery. The Ministry said the visit highlighted the resort's sustainable practices and innovative food production practices.
In addition, the techniques employed by the resort further highlighted the important role that resorts can play in supporting agriculture in Maldives, the Ministry added.
The Ministry emphasised that resorts can play an important role in increasing sourcing of locally grown produce, farming, investing in hydroponics or other methods, or sharing skills and techniques with local farmers.
The Ministry said the aim of identifying these options is to increase locally produced food, promote sustainable practices and reduce dependence on imports. It added that enhanced cooperation will benefit the tourism industry and the society while paving the way to ensuring a sustainable food security in the Maldives.