Suriname, like many countries in the CARICOM region, faces ongoing challenges in meeting international SPS requirements in the horticulture sector. Although agriculture makes a significant contribution to the national economy, non-compliance with food safety standards, particularly related to pesticide residues, has resulted in the rejection of export products such as eggplant, okra, and peppers.
This PPG seeks to assess the feasibility of using artificial intelligence (AI) to strengthen and sustain a robust food safety culture across the horticultural value chain. If the approach proves viable, the PPG will inform the development of a full project proposal to pilot the use of AI in the region, with the aim of improving SPS compliance, reducing export rejections, and boosting trade competitiveness.