Improving food safety capacity of the pepper value chain in Jamaica to increase market access

The main objective of the project is to increase compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary standards to improve the production and export of Jamaican hot peppers to key markets such as the European Union, United Kingdom, United States, Canada and regional markets. In addition, it seeks to strengthen the technical and resource capacities of local producers, inspection bodies and regulatory bodies in the management of these standards and in the delivery of extension services in order to increase pepper production and open new market opportunities. The main actions of the project include training programs for producers and other actors in the value chain in good agricultural and food safety practices, improving research and certification infrastructure, and facilitating access to technologies and digital tools to improve the competitiveness and resilience of agricultural companies. The adoption of integrated pest management systems and appropriate postharvest practices will also be promoted to increase the quality of the final product.