Parika packaging facility processed 160 tonnes of produce - within several months   

Georgetown, GINA, June 1, 2009

General Manager of the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), Nizam Hassan has disclosed that agro-packaging facility at Parika, East Bank Essequibo, has processed over 160 tonnes of vegetables and fruits, primarily for export markets since its opening in October.
            The $89M facility has the capacity to pack and process 40,000 lbs of produce per day and is an integral part of the Ministry of Agriculture's “Grow More Food” Campaign as it encourages proper preparation after harvest. All produce are processed free of cost to farmers and exporters.

The Parika agro-packaging facility processing vegetables and fruits

        According to Hassan, GMC is facilitating agro-processing training for farmers to build their capacity and enhance their development.  
            All the services at the Ministry of Agriculture are linked and the Parika agro-packaging facility was strategically placed at that location since there is a farmers' landing that makes for easy transportation of produce from riverain communities.  
            Even though 160 tonnes of fruits and vegetables have been processed, there is capacity for more produce to be prepared.

Packaging being done at the facility

Hassan noted that there is an increase in exports and the corporation's intention is ensure exports continue to grow. In this light, GMC has been improving its marketing services in areas such as providing information on pricing and crop selection.
             The Parika packaging facility is the second of its kind in Guyana. The Sophia Centre established in 2001 is still in operation.

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