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EU to help sugar sector compete better globally
2008-07-17 11:13:42
By Guardian Reporter
The European Commission has introduced a six-year package of measures worth euro 6.5 million to develop Tanzania`s sugar sector, helping it to compete globally.
A statement issued in Dar es Salaam yesterday by the European Union said there was an overall need for the country`s sugar industry to become more efficient, cut costs and diversify from simple sugar production as a way of improving competitiveness with other countries.
It said the EC`s overall aim is to support only non-bankable measures contained within the country`s National Sugar Strategy.
``Priorities have been to design and start the implementation of measures for improved efficiencies in smallholder farm management, the development of `public good` types of infrastructure at the smallholder (outgrower) level and to support improved environmental management,`` the statement read in part.
The strategy is meant to address inefficiencies in the smallholder production process and the establishment of block farming at the outgrower level.
Under the programme, farm tracks and sugarcane access roads for outgrowers would be rehabilitated, while a farm trust would be set up to support infrastructure maintenance.
According to the statement, the package would also include comprehensive support to improve synchronisation of farming among smallholder farmers and improved agricultural practices and logistics management.
Sugar institutes are lined up for support so that they can fulfil their mandates in the sector more effectively.
``For areas where outgrowers do not exist, the EC will support the improvement of environmental management, particularly in the areas of soil and effluent management,`` said the statement.
Tanzania came up with a national strategy on how to adjust to the new EU sugar market regime in response to a World Trade Organisation ruling.
The EC thereafter outlined a strategy for the period of 2006-2013 on how to support the country`s national plans for adjusting to the new price regime.
The implementation of the programme is scheduled to begin in December this year.
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