Republic of Mauritius- Incentives to be introduced to boost local milk production

He was speaking at the opening ceremony of an exhibition and sales of local dairy products in the context of the celebration of World Milk Day 2019, organised by the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security in collaboration with the Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute. Products exhibited include soft cheese, mozzarella, feta, paneer, rasmalai and flavoured milk, among others.

Minister Seeruttun pointed out that in a bid to uplift the livestock sector and local milk production, new farming projects are being developed at Melrose and Salazie which will soon be operational. He further outlined that with the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security, the Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute, and the Small Farmers Welfare Fund, providing necessary guidance and incentives to breeders, an increase in local milk production and derivatives can be achieved.

It will be recalled that over the years the annual imports of milk and its derivatives have considerably increased amounting to some Rs 3 billion as compared to an increase in milk consumption and to the number of local milk producers which have witnessed a decrease.

Furthermore, with the restructuration as outlined by the Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security regarding the sector, additional citizens will be able to launch their business in milk production and manufacturing of local dairy products. A mobile app has also been developed for the livestock sector with the collaboration of the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology so that breeders can have access to information in an accurate and timely manner.