No shortage of food products, reassures Minister Boolell

The country is not currently experiencing any food supply shortages, reassured the Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, Dr Arvin Boolell.

He chaired an Emergency Committee on Food Security with key stakeholders of the Agro-Industry sector this afternoon at the seat of his Ministry in Port Louis. The aim was to have an interactive session and review the availability of essential food commodities, given the current geopolitical situation worldwide.

The Junior Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mr Fabrice David, was also present.

In a statement following the meeting, Minister Boolell highlighted that the Agricultural Marketing Board has given assurances that it has sufficient stocks of potatoes, onions and garlic, while additional cargo is expected to reach the country by 10 April 2026. The stocks are as follows: 1,500 tonnes of potatoes; 1,200 tonnes of onions; and 130 tonnes of garlic. Expected cargo comprise: 3,836 tonnes of potatoes; 2,660 tonnes of onions; and 392 tonnes of garlic.

Dr Boolell pointed out that on top of the work being carried out by the State Trading Corporation and the import permits granted by his Ministry, there are no issues with the local food production. He moreover indicated that support measures offered by the Development Bank of Mauritius are being reworked so that farmers and breeders can take advantage of the facilities at their disposal.

Furthermore, the Minister stressed the necessity for the Ministry’s dormant stations across the island to be productive in a bid to ensure availability of local food products.

During the meeting, relevant stakeholders also informed that fruits are being imported from China, India, South Africa and Australia, while fresh vegetables mainly arrive from South Africa. There are currently no concerns regarding imports of meat, staple commodities, fresh vegetables and fruits.

03 March 2026

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Topics: Agriculture