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Home | Farmers Urged to Register with RADA and Secure Receipt Books Under Agricultural Produce Act
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), Derron Grant, addresses a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank.’
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), Derron Grant, is encouraging farmers across the island to register with the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) and purchase their Agricultural Produce Receipt Books.
This, he says, is in keeping with the requirements of the Agricultural Produce Act (APA).
Mr. Grant explained that the JAS, as an agency under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, plays a critical role in the traceability framework designed to combat praedial larceny.
The CEO noted that the Agricultural Produce Receipt Book is a key tool in ensuring accountability and transparency in the movement of agricultural goods.
Addressing a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank’, Mr. Grant said farmers who wish to access the receipt book must first be registered with RADA under the Agricultural Business Information System (ABIS).
Once verified, they may proceed to any JAS office islandwide to purchase the book.
Farmers are required to present their RADA-issued identification card when purchasing the book. In cases where the RADA ID is unavailable, a national ID may be used to verify registration on the ABIS.
Mr. Grant emphasised that failure to comply with the provisions of the APA carries severe penalties. Amendments to the Act in 2023 increased fines from $250,000 to as high as $3 million in some instances, with custodial sentences moving from three months to up to three years.
He urged farmers who have not yet purchased their receipt books to do so immediately to avoid penalties.
The CEO also highlighted the importance of farmers keeping their registration information current.
He pointed out that registration is crop-specific and not farmer-specific, meaning that any changes in production practices, crop type, or livestock must be reported to RADA.
“Do not wait on the officer to come to you. Reach out to your RADA office and update your status to prevent issues when transporting your animals or produce,” Mr. Grant advised.
He reiterated the JAS’s commitment to supporting farmers and safeguarding their interests, while stressing that compliance with the Agricultural Produce Act is essential in strengthening the fight against praedial larceny and protecting Jamaica’s agricultural sector.
