Vegetable and citrus project developments with emphasis on export

This report analyzes production constraints and evaluates ongoing and new projects. Major production constraints for vegetables are identified as poor quality seed; varieties unsuited to all markets, climates, and soils; inadequate cultivation methods and inputs (too much irrigation, too little fertilization); lack of low-interest institutional credit; and an inequitable marketing system controlled by agents. Production constraints for specific products (melons, cucumbers) include excessive shipping costs and infrequent shipping schedules, lack of disease control, and poor brokerage in international markets. Citrus production suffers from poor orchard maintenance and location and the absence of commercial germ banks and of multiple market outlets. Constraints common to vegetable and citrus production for export include high production costs due to low farm productivity, an inefficient marketing system, inadequate storage and transportation, and the absence of market research and development. Five ongoing and three new projects (including one to produce foundation seed) are evaluated and forms of donor assistance recommended; it is recommended that to avoid costly delays credits be channeled directly to the individual project.