“Agritourism will boost Vanutau economy if we can link agriculture to tourism" Deputy PM Joe Natuman

“There is has huge potential of benefits that can derive from Agritourism if we could properly ensure the linkages between agriculture and the tourism sector”. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Trade and Industries, Joe Natuman made that statement yesterday in his opening remarks at the Vanuatu Agritourism 2016. Mr. Natuman emphasized on the importance of this new concept that combines and emphasizes on the necessity to strengthen linkages between the two major productive sectors in Vanuatu which are the primary sector (agriculture, livestock, fisheries, forestry) and the tourism industry. He added that Agritourism is a fastest growing concept that other countries in the region are capitalizing on to boost their economy and their tourism and agriculture sectors. “The farms are inviting visitors to go out to rural areas and experience the farms’ environment, the farmers lifestyle and at the same time to enjoy the local food and fruits produced in those farms. “Though the concept of Agritourism is currently at an infant stage at this point in time, however, if we manage to develop adequate Agri-Tourism strategies, the country can get a huge potential benefits from it”, Mr. Joe Natuman said. He stressed that Agritourism should be included in the 100 days priority plan of the Vanuatu government. He went on saying that the purpose of hosting this first Vanuatu Agritourism Festival is to advocate through workshops, field trips, sharing of experiences and raise awareness during this three day event is to sensitize the public and the stakeholders on the potential benefits of the development of Agritourism.

Full Article: https://vanuatuinfooline.wordpress.com/2016/11/10/agritourism-will-boost-vanuatu-economy-if-we-can-link-agriculture-to-tourism-natuman/