Ministry of Natural Resources announces crucial development for Aruba’s future in primary sector
The Good Corporate Agriculture (GAP) study group was established. The main reason for establishing the “steering committee” is to develop a robust GAP certification program that contributes to the production and consumption of safer and higher quality food. This also creates significant opportunities for local farmers to export. The steering committee is tasked with developing the GAP program, implementation plan and presenting concrete actions to comply with all technical and operational (international) rules related to agricultural practices in Aruba. The program will focus on different aspects such as understanding the risks of contamination, selection of land for consumer and environmental protection, GAP certification standards for agriculture and animal husbandry, food supply chain (storage, transportation, etc.), laws and regulations, hygiene, control and inspection, and all other aspects relevant to GAP.
The steering committee, whose members are interdepartmental and inter ministerial consisting of the Directie Landbouw, Veeteelt en Visserij (chairman), Directie Natuur en Milieu, Directie Volksgezondheid, Directie Economische Zaken, and representatives of the Ministry of Economic Affairs has a mandate for the next three months. The steering committee may seek support for its tasks from other government departments and institutes that may contribute in some way to its work. They may also be assisted by one or more independent and impartial experts in their work. Within three months the Stuurgroep has the responsibility to present to the Minister of Transport, Integrity, Nature and Elderly Affairs their results, advice, plans and concrete actions.
Minister Arends is pleased with the diligent efforts of the GAP program that opens doors for Aruba’s farmers to prosper both locally and internationally.