Background on Key Figures and Relevance
Mara Lezama Espinosa, the governor of Quintana Roo, Mexico, has been actively working to revitalize the agricultural sector in her state. Recently, she met with Julio Berdegué Sacristán, the Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) to address challenges faced by the sugarcane producers in Quintana Roo.
Quintana Roo, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant tourism industry, also boasts a significant agricultural sector. The sugarcane industry is crucial to the region’s economy, providing jobs and contributing to local development. However, the sector has been grappling with various issues that require immediate attention and support.
Key Points from the Meeting
- The meeting focused on evaluating diverse programs for agricultural development in Quintana Roo, with an emphasis on supporting farmers and producers.
- Governor Lezama emphasized her government’s commitment to addressing the historical neglect and underdevelopment of Quintana Roo’s agricultural sector.
- Topics discussed included strengthening federal programs like Cosechando Soberanía, seed initiatives, enhancing phytosanitary controls, improving ganado genetics, and establishing vegetable plant sanitation laboratories.
- The sector’s specific concerns, particularly those of sugarcane producers, were addressed, and a federal working group was established to monitor progress.
- Efforts were made to bolster the aquaculture sector by creating certified fingerling laboratories and advancing the Denomination of Origin (D.O.) for honey, specifically targeting Apis mellifera-produced honey.
- Secretary Berdegué Sacristán highlighted his department’s support for fishermen, agricultural and livestock producers, beekeepers, and vegetable growers during the meeting.
Upcoming Actions and Collaboration
Following the meeting, Secretary Berdegué Sacristán has planned a working visit to Lázaro Cárdenas, Kantunilkín, and Chiquilá to further engage with local agricultural stakeholders.
Attendees
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Enrique Morales Pardo (SADER Quintana Roo head), Jorge Aguilar Osorio (Secretary of Agroecological, Rural and Fisheries Development – SEDARPE), and Cristina Torres (Secretary of Government).
Key Questions and Answers
- Who attended the meeting? The meeting was attended by Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa, Secretary Julio Berdegué Sacristán, Enrique Morales Pardo (SADER head in Quintana Roo), Jorge Aguilar Osorio (SEDARPE Secretary), and Cristina Torres (Secretary of Government).
- What were the main topics discussed? The main topics included evaluating agricultural development programs, strengthening federal initiatives, addressing sugarcane producers’ concerns, and supporting other agricultural sectors like aquaculture and beekeeping.
- What actions will be taken next? A federal working group has been established to monitor progress on addressing the sugarcane sector’s challenges. Secretary Berdegué Sacristán will also visit Lázaro Cárdenas, Kantunilkín, and Chiquilá to engage with local agricultural stakeholders.
