Cold-weather crops warm up in Taguasco

Amidst today’s immense challenges and the economic crisis facing the country, farmers in Taguasco are fully engaged in the cool-season planting campaign for various crops—a crucial effort intended to secure over 60 percent of the food supply by 2027.

This goal must be pursued even though the state-guaranteed package of agricultural inputs and technology is no longer available.

Throughout these very difficult times, planting has continued in this agricultural region—albeit mostly using animal traction and on small plots for family subsistence—driven by the determination of farmers facing high input costs.

A prime example is the cultivation of nearly 10 hectares of tomatoes, intended to ensure fresh salad for local tables by year-end. Bean crops are also expanding, demonstrating that farmers have not sat idly by in the face of adversity.

However, the same level of resolve is not evident among the cooperatives; they are under pressure to strike new deals with various economic actors and transform their operational models to spur agricultural recovery. Ultimately, they must move beyond the status quo and enhance their management capabilities.