Maize to be exported to Taiwan, Canada

Ishara MUDUGAMUWA

Arrangements are in place to export 10,000 metric tons of maize to Taiwan and Canada on May 22, said Agriculture Minister Mahinda Yapa Abeywardane.

"The government gave priority for the promotion of ten crops among farmers under the local food promotion programme. Maize became popular through this programme. Maize cultivation is second only to paddy cultivation," the minister said.

According to the minister, the highest maize production is from the Uva province and the lowest from the Northern province. Farmers in Colombo, Kalutara, Galle and other districts successfully engage in maize cultivation.

"The annual local requirement of maize is 180,000 MTs. Currently, 200,000 MTs is produced in the country. About 10,000 MTs from the surplus will be exported," the minister said.

According to the agriculture crop production plan, 279,812 metric tons of maize is expected from 86,302 hectares of land in 2011/12 Maha season. Maize exporter Shahul Hameed Sadikeen said as the government encourages farmers through agriculture development programmes such as Api Wawamu Rata Nagamu, the country could be self-sufficient in maize.

As the government provides fertilizer subsidy, seeds and other planting material, farmers could reduce the production cost.

The ceremony to mark the occasion of exporting a shipment of 10,000 metric tons of maize for the first time in history by Wayamba Traders will be held on the May 22 at the auspicious time of 9.47 am at No. 25, Nigrodarama Road, Peliyagoda.

Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa will participate as the chief guest.