Honduras launches strategy with FAO support to attract agro-investment

Honduras has unveiled the "Incentive Strategy for the Development of the Agro-food Sector 2026-2030," a comprehensive plan designed to attract investment and modernize its agricultural industry. Launched with the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the initiative aims to strengthen productivity, integrate new technologies, and promote sustainable rural development.

The strategy serves as a roadmap to address key challenges within the agricultural sector, which is vital to Honduras's economy, contributing approximately 13% of the GDP and accounting for about 23% of national employment. By facilitating investments, the government hopes to generate employment, enhance technological adoption, and improve the overall competitiveness of producers.

José Ricardo Fuentes, Secretary General of the National Investment Council (CNI), highlighted that investments in agriculture do more than just bolster production; they create jobs, introduce technology, open opportunities for families, and boost the country's competitiveness. He stressed that the plan seeks to drive investments yielding sustainable results and transform the conditions for rural families.

The FAO's representative in Honduras, Fátima Espinal, described the agricultural sector as the "backbone of the Honduran national economy." She acknowledged existing challenges, including climate change impacts, financing gaps, and technological disparities. Espinal noted that the agro-food sector represents over 35% of the country's exports, and the new strategy aims to act as a "bridge of trust" to channel resources effectively, reduce investment risks, and open fair markets.

Developed under the FAO's 'Hand in Hand' initiative, the strategy involved collaboration between public institutions, private companies, and international organizations like World Vision, Ayuda en Acción, and Rikolto. The goal is to establish a shared vision for a more competitive and inclusive agro-food sector, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to everyone from smallholder farmers and rural women to young people and large-scale investors.