JA could earn up to $41 million annually from mushroom cultivation - Hutchinson

Jamaica could earn up to $41 million annually from mushroom cultivation and the Government says it is pushing to meet the increasing demand. 

"Mr Speaker, the prospects for mushroom cultivation are excellent. Jamaica stands to earn some $41 million and provide much-needed jobs from the development of a vibrant mushroom industry," said J.C Hutchinson, Minister without portfolio in charge of Agriculture, who was making his contribution to the Sectoral Debate on Tuesday.

Hutchinson said the figure was derived from the cost of imported mushrooms last year.

Hutchinson explained that over the last ten years there has been an increase in importation, with high consumption in resort towns. 

He further stated that he has been meeting with stakeholders who are trying to satisfy the market, noting that he is energised about the prospects for the country.

Hutchinson commented: "Mushrooms are traded as fresh, canned and dried across the world, and I have encouraged these organisations to go even further into the value chain, producing other products such as mushroom seasoning, medicinal mushroom products, snacks such as biscuits, chips candy; powdered mushroom and cosmetics".

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