 The CMOS industry in St. Lucia is riding a wave of optimism as the government continues to lend its unwavering support to its development. With an iron economic growth and sustainability, the recent donation of equipment to the Opikos CMOS Farmers Association and CMOS Farmers in Savins Bay is a tangible demonstration of the government's commitment to this burgeoning industry. Through export St. Lucia, these local farmers have received a significant boost in the form of drawing tables and flotation devices, essential tools that will help them maintain proper standards and elevate their CMOS farming operations to new heights. President of the Opikos CMOS Farmers Association, Cohen Samuel, expressed his gratitude for the donation and highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards in CMOS farming. He explains that this will not only enhance the competitiveness of St. Lucia's CMOS in the international market, but also promote sustainable farming practices among local farmers. I believe and have been pleading for the CMOS farmers in St. Lucia and for this industry, we believe that it can grow, but we need to reach the standard which we have to reach, so that our CMOS will not just be the best in the world. We know it's the best already, but anyone who comes to St. Lucia will be proud of what we have achieved through this agriculture, especially CMOS. According to Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Alfred Prosper, this recent donation is part of ongoing efforts to empower local CMOS farmers with the necessary tools and equipment to improve their farming practices and meet industry standards. He also expressed optimism about the tremendous opportunities for livelihoods through diversification in the CMOS industry. It has always been a concern to me that we need to be able to impact the livelihoods of people in rural areas and the CMOS sector is well-placed to do so. I know we all are aware of the value of our CMOS. We have been told that it's one of the best in the world. And obviously if something is one of the best in the world, we have to cherish it and be able to ensure that St. Lucia maintain that status. And that status cannot only be maintained by the government giving us a significant amount of money to boost the sector, but the stakeholders like you who are involved in the growing of the CMOS, in the processing of the CMOS also have a very significant role to play. Another role is to ensure that we produce CMOS of high quality at a consistent level. The recent donation of CMOS farming equipment to the OPCOR CMOS Farmers Association underscores the government of St. Lucia's commitment to the growth and sustainability of the CMOS industry. This support will enable local farmers to adhere to proper standards and contribute to the industry's success. From the Communications Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture, I am Anicia Antoine reporting.