Agriculture ministers from six Latin American countries are holding a virtual meeting on Wednesday to outline joint strategies for the banana industry.
The meeting, organised by Ecuadorean Minister of Agriculture Pedro álava, will address key issues facing the sector, such as rising production costs and the fight against Fusarium wilt TR4.
álava said it is vital for the region to a common position in the face of these challenges, in particular the high cost of packaging materials, fertilisers and other inputs, which is affecting producers and exporters alike and threatens the livelihood of thousands of rural workers.
The minister claimed a joint strategy would strengthen solidarity and commitment and help the sector achieve a better dal.
The six countries involved in the meeting are Ecuador, Guatemala, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Panama and Costa Rica.