Local Farmers Battle Imported Carrot Produce

Farmers in San Carlos Village, Orange Walk, are in distress as they struggle to sell their bumper crop of carrots. German Tillett, UDP standard bearer for Orange Walk South, told News 5 that many farmers are unable to find buyers, leaving their produce unsold and rotting in the fields. Despite efforts to sell locally, they find the market overwhelmed with competition and lack sufficient wholesale buyers. The situation has led to financial losses as farmers are forced to sell at low prices to cover transportation costs.

Tillett pointed out the issue of imported Mexican carrots flooding the market, which further undercuts local prices. “We have enough carrots here to supply the whole country of Belize,” Tillett said. He added that the current import policy is harming local farmers. According to Tillet, the government’s attempt to address the problem through a mediator who buys carrots directly from farmers has proven ineffective, with no buyer willing to help take the crops off their hands.

At least 8 to 10 farmers in the area are facing significant challenges, with acres of carrots going to waste. The unbalanced competition with imported produce has Tillet urging for more support for the local produce farmers.