IDB Approves Loan to Improve Animal and Plant Health, Food Quality in DR

26 July 2011: The Dominican Republic is to receive a loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for a programme to help the country safeguard the quality of food consumed locally or exported, by improving the prevention and control of plant and animal pests.

The US$10 million loan, which has been approved by the IDB, is aimed at helping the Dominican Republic raise standards in its agriculture sector and improve access to national and international markets, as well as strengthening the government's capacity to supply and integrate its animal and plant health, and food safety services.

Under the programme, measures to improve animal health services will be carried out at the national level, starting with pilot projects in three provinces in the country. Over the next five years, the programme will strengthen food safety by reducing residues and contaminants in agricultural products. The programme also will benefit about 3,750 farmers and 200 livestock producers by providing them with training in agricultural practices. [IDB News Release]