Agro National Corporation (AgroNat) has revealed that the newly built distribution centre in Gan, Laamu Atoll, will be opened in the next two months.
AgroNat stated that the distribution centre in Gan will be used to store the products of local farmers and deliver them to other areas and that it will begin using boats with cold storage units to transport agricultural products before the end of the year.
AgroNat is establishing distribution centres with cold storage facilities in nine regions in the Maldives to deliver fresh products cultivated by Maldivian farmers. As such, the company is building distribution centres in Manadhoo in Noonu Atoll, Kinolhas in Raa Atoll, Magoodhoo in Faafu Atoll, Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo in Laamu Atoll, Nilandhoo in Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Fuvahmulah City, and Addu City.
AgroNat was established by the government to market agricultural produce from local farms and provide a better income for farmers. The corporation has established contracts with farmers for various different types of fruits and vegetables. AgroNat is providing technical and financial assistance to local farmers to produce these items, and helping them to market their produce.
Additionally, AgroNat has been working with local farmers to increase the production of fruits and vegetables during the holy month of Ramadan, which usually brings a hike in prices due to increased demand. The increased production levels this year have enabled the prices of items to be under control during Ramadan.