More than 250 exhibitors are present at the Royal Caledonia Show. Jean-Christophe Niautou, president of the Chamber of Agriculture and Fisheries in New Caledonia, reminds NC la 1ère of the importance of consuming local, and outlines an assessment of the situation in the agricultural sector.
A market in partnership with the Chamber of Agriculture and Fisheries in New Caledonia is set up at the Henry-Milliard Hippodrome.“We are delighted to be here”rejoices its president, Jean-Christophe Niautou. Relaunched after May 13, these meetings with the population were “restarting the activities of farmers and fishermen while putting producers back in contact with consumers”.
Producers present in Val Plaisance “come from the entire territory and islands“. There is a great diversity. Fruits, vegetables, fish and meat are offered. “This is an opportunity for us to show good local production, which we wish to further develop. Eating local is something very important for us”explains Jean-Christophe Niautou.
While in August three out of ten farmers thought they would have to stop their activities, the president of the Chamber of Agriculture and Fisheries in New Caledonia draws a different assessment today.
“We have farmers and fishermen in difficulty. This is mainly linked to problems marketing their production. Things have stabilized a little,” he explains.
The profession has a long-term vision to increase production. “By 2030, if we implement what we would like to do, we could create up to 2,000 jobs in agriculture, fishing, agri-food, processing and distribution. There are really real challenges and strong vitality in our sectors of activity.”
Despite the drop in purchasing power and the economic crisis, Jean-Christophe Niautou recommends that Caledonians consume local products to support the fishing and agricultural professions.“We absolutely must continue to develop this local sector and eat locally to create jobs in all these sectors of activity. In our territories, currently, the mines are in difficulty, as are the factories. We must provide support. employment and prospects for Caledonians, we believe that the agricultural sector, fishing and the agri-food industry are driving forces for this.”
More information in the interview with Valentin Deleforterie.
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