Data or statistical facts on the situation and perspectives of agri-food systems and the impact of policies
A health protocol and additional health measures are being developed by Suriname's Ministry of Health together with the Pan American Health Organization to address potential effects of the contamination, with the approach also intended to cover other areas and rivers.
A reported plant disease in the area was investigated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, which determined that it was caused by a fungus and not by the use of river water.
Several chemical substances were detected by the NMA in water and fish samples from the Saramacca River area; because the substances and their concentrations were initially not fully known, authorities advised against using the river water, consuming fish from the affected area, or coming into contact with the contaminated water.
In the sectoral mapping of PAIs, agriculture, forestry, hunting and fishing accounts for 248 PAIs (34.8%), followed by manufacturing (188), tourism (70) and ICT (51); additionally, 32 PAIs in health are identified, according to the report (ECLAC, 2025).
Up to 70% of agricultural productivity growth in Latin America and the Caribbean is reduced when environmental costs are taken into account. The increase in production has been driven mainly by the intensive use of inputs rather than by technological or managerial improvements, highlighting the need for policies that integrate sustainability and innovation. (IDB, 2025)
1.2% of the 497 productive articulation initiatives (PAI) (same 20 countries; 2023–2025) report investment attraction as a strategic focus (ECLAC, 2025).
1.2% of the 497 productive articulation initiatives (PAI) (same 20 countries; 2023–2025) focus on technology extension services (ECLAC, 2025).
12.7% of the 497 productive articulation initiatives (PAI) (20 countries, 2023–2025) prioritize productive linkages as their strategic focus, according to the report (ECLAC, 2025).
2.4% of the 497 productive articulation initiatives (PAI) (same 20 countries; 2023–2025) focus on quality improvement (ECLAC, 2025).
10.7% of the 497 productive articulation initiatives (PAI) (20 countries, 2023–2025) focus on improving the commercial and tourism offer and increasing sales, according to the report (ECLAC, 2025).
