Govt launches seafood export company

Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Christine Sahadeo, who launched the company, said the need for the company comes on the heels of Government’s realisation that revenues from agriculture and fishing only accounted for nine percent of the country’s agricultural Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Sahadeo said the Government recognised the need to empower the fishing industry through the company’s new mandate, which includes the implementation of a strategic plan for aqua-development and fish processing, especially in rural and coastal fishing areas.

Sahadeo said the new company was sure to reduce unemployment rates as 6,000 new jobs would be created as the company’s need for staff increases. She said the Government is looking forward to an increase in revenue from export which could amount to as much as $62 million in profits.

Sahadeo expressed her faith in the new company, saying all members have tremendous experience in various aspects of the fishing industry, and this would help to create a more profitable fisheries market.

Sahadeo presented letters of appointment to ten board members, two of whom were absent. Bruno Maharaj will serve as chairman of the board which includes Amordeen Ali, Richard Anthony Ramsawak, Deoraj Ramcharan, Emile Louis, Richard B Tywang, Ingrid Meyer, Charles Augustus Jones, Basdeo Ramkellewan and Carlise Maconi Jordan.