The president of the Regional Union of Plantain Producers, Francisco Hueso Alcaraz, confirmed that there would continue to be a low production of this crop in May because of the damage that the atypical winds of February caused on the plantations.
He also said that the insurance companies wouldn't respond for the damage because the percentage of damage was lower than what their policies cover, a situation that regretted, and that their only alternative now was to ask the governments to supported to plantain producers.
"The strong winds hit us and directly affected 100 thousand hectares, which will no longer be part of the production. In addition, the foliage of the remaining crops was very hurt," stated the producer.
The damage affects the plant's photosynthesis and prevents them from producing fruit, he said.
As a result, there will be a fall in volumes. "We expect a decrease in production in May so we won't be able to supply as much offer as we usually do."
However, he said, this could help maintain the national plantain's prices and they could fluctuate between 7.50, 8.50 or even 9 pesos. "There won't be much of a variation in the fruit that will be exported, as this fruit has already been negotiated," he said.
Prices will help compensate the lower offer there is, he said. "It's a very reserved and controlled offer, I don't mean to say that it's low, but that's how it is."
"It's unfortunate that the state insurance won't cover these damages because the extent of the damage in Tecoman wasn't big enough to be covered by them. We'll have to wait to see how the government supports the people affected through other channels," he said.
Source: colimanoticias.com