The new Secretary of Agriculture, Eligio Jaquez, announced that the government will invest DR$2.1 billion (around US$ 130 million) in the production of agricultural products of first necessity and tobacco before year?s end. The purpose of the investment, he said, is to guarantee sufficient food supplies for the population. The sum represents an increment of DR$556 above the amount currently budgeted which sum, according to Jaquez, has been promised by President Hipolito Mejia. In part, the funds will be used to stimulate cultivation of corn, sorghum, pumpkins, beans, and green leafy vegetables. Jacques noted that tomato growers and tobacco farmers need help. Many have seen their crops devastated by the effects of the ?white mosquito? (mosquita blanca). Poor planning and over-production have wrought ill effects on the nation?s agricultural sector, as well, he said. Poor equilibrium between imports and exports has resulted in excess and waste for some staples and scarcity in others, according to the Secretary.
