Matambo bullish as growth doubles, deficits narrow
Tuesday, February 07, 2017
Presenting the 2017/18 budget speech before Parliamentarians, Matambo said Government will again spend more than it collects this year with expenditure, dominated by investments in water, energy, defence, education and the much talked about Economic Stimulus Package (ESP), outweighing revenues.
A P2.5 billion-budget deficit is forecast this year from P1.1 billion in 2016 with investments in utilities and other infrastructure taking the largest chunk of the P59.54 billion expenditure. Revenues is estimated at P57.2 billion this year.
The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...