Martinique and Guadeloupe banana producers join forces

Thursday, October 2, 2003

FORT DE FRANCE, Martinique: Banana producers in Martinique and Guadeloupe have joined forces in an effort to grapple with the crisis facing the industry.

The Associated Press reported recently that Lucette Michaux-Chevry, head of the French regional government of the Guadeloupe region, will chair the new association representing banana growers in the both islands. 

The association will include regional politicians, professionals, unions and members of parliament. 

The number of producers in Guadeloupe has fallen from 1,000 to 400 over the last ten years and in Martinique it has fallen from 1,200 to 750, said AP.

Mr. Alfred Marie-Jeanne, vice-chairman, was quoted as saying that the industry will now have one voice to defend its interests. The producers complain that the prices set by the common market for bananas are too low. The new association will renegotiate with OCM Banane and seek to improve sales in France and in new markets. 

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