| High Technology Crops Production |
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Status and Market Trends: The introduction of modern farming technology has gained momentum among the agriculture producers in Brunei Daru ssalam. In crops farming, the Department of Agriculture encourages and continues to support producers cum investors, to adopt hi-tech cultivation through hydroponics on a commercial scale. However, due to its complexity and high establishment costs, the adoption of this system is slow. Currently, there are only a small number of enterprising producers adapting this system on a small scale production. The Department of Agriculture continues to facilitate and support the development of this industry. Research activities continue to further improve the system in order to be able to help the producers and at the same time promoting the use of hydroponics in their crops production. Currently, the research activities concentrate on identifying suitable types of high value temperate vegetables and the cooling technology of hydroponics house system OPPORTUNITY : High technology fruits and vegetables farming system producing temperate or high value crops products - (i) hi-tech crops production using hydroponics, aeroponics and other high-technology system of production; (ii) the production of potential and niche crops products (new breeds including indigenous products) MARKET SETTING AND TRENDS: The per capita consumption of fruits and vegetables are 55 kg and 49 kg, respectively. Hydroponically produced fruits and vegetables are well accepted in the market. Price of products in the retail outlet often commands premium price as compared to conventionally produced crops. Source of low cost structure on hydroponics system and house is often a challenge. Many successful ventures operated in small scale. Commercial operation is slow. REMARKS: There are opportunities to expand and develop the hydroponics industry for the production of high quality crops to supply both the affluent Bruneians and the possibilities for export market. Supply of hydroponics system and materials is limited, but imported system and materials are easily available. SUPPORT FACILITIES The government policies have been supportive towards investment in agriculture and agro-based food products. The Department of Agriculture will be in-hand to provide assistant to potential investors in areas that includes: • Leasing of semi-developed land and industrial site at a reasonable minimum rate for a mutually agreeable period. • Provision of basic infrastructures (access road , drainage, irrigation, portable water and electricity). • Application on Special Tax breaks for declared pioneer industries and products. • Assistance from the Department of Agriculture and a host of other support facilities. • The proposed agro-technology park aim to conduct scientific work and biotech innovation and commercial operation may serve as knowledge-based service provider. Further Enquiry: |
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STATUS AND MARKET TRENDS
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