The cultivation of pineapple in the department of Nueva Guinea, an autonomous Region of the southern Atlantic, Nicaragua, has grown in last ten years. Currently about 70 hectares of this fruit are planted, which is mostly sold in the local market, according to local producers.
The fruit production in this department started in the 90s, with the development of 3.5 hectares for demonstration in the municipalities of La Ceiba, La Fonseca and Rio Plata.
The producers were assisted by the Rural Development Institute and were supported with technology from Pueblos and Acción Comunitaria.
In Nicaragua, the largest pineapple production is concentrated in the municipality of Ticuantepe, in the department of Managua, where about 1560 hectares of pineapple are cultivated. This land produces about 42 million units each year, according to figures from the Association of Pineapple and Pitahaya Growers of Nicaragua.
However, in New Guinea, the climatic conditions of the area have allowed the cultivation of pineapple to expand as an alternative way for income generation, employment and business opportunities for small producers.
"Our expectations are positive. We expect the increase in the category in the near future, as there is demand for the product.
"The local market is good," assures Fernando Alvarado Aguilar, owner and director of Agricultural Development, Daisa.
Source: Elnuevodiario