Cuban gov't calls for increased food production

HAVANA, Dec. 21 (Chinese media) -- Cuba's first Vice President Jose Ramon Machado Ventura on Sunday called for an increase in food production in 2009 to recover from three recent Hurricanes.

Describing 2009 as a "decisive" year for Cuba, Machado said it will demonstrate whether Cuba is capable of recovering from three devastating hurricanes that struck in less than one month and will show what can be done in the future.

"The current crisis in the world affects Cuba, and we must make sure that the country is endeavoring to minimize the impacts of this crisis," Machado said during a meeting with representatives of the agricultural sector.

If Cuba can import 80 percent of its food or agriculture equipment, and that cost be reduced to 50 percent of the total expense, it would be an economic relief, Machado said.

According to official numbers, food purchases represent 20 percent of Cuba's imports, at a cost of about 2 billion U.S. dollars.