Agricultural developments in Honduras and Ecuador

In Honduras, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (SAG) is implementing pilot programs to introduce the JUMA 6920 rice variety, sourced from the Dominican Republic. The initiative aims to increase rice yields from 70 to 120 quintals per manzana. Testing is currently underway in regions including Santa Bárbara, Olancho, Comayagua, and Intibucá to evaluate the grain's adaptability to the local climate and its effectiveness in managing undesirable rice varieties.

In Ecuador, the Los Ríos province is facing a significant sanitary risk due to Moko, a bacterial disease caused by Ralstonia solanacearum. The disease affects the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients, leading to progressive wilting and death. The Association of Banana Exporters of Ecuador (AEBE) estimates that approximately 3,500 hectares nationwide have already been affected. In response, Agrocalidad has increased technical deployment across the 13 cantons of Los Ríos to implement prevention measures such as tool disinfection and improved drainage.