This year there are also improvements in inputs, in the distribution process and in technical assistance, because it has been demonstrated that Buenas Prácticas Agrícolas (BPA) could increase productivity by up to 20%.

The new agricultural packages contain 25 pounds of certified seed; seed treater, to avoid plant loss due to soil or foliar pest attack; a complete formula of soil and foliar fertilizer, to balance plant nutrition and good ear formation. These innovations are part of the Programa de Insumos Agrotecnológicos (PIATEC), which provides an accurate response to the needs of producers.

The head of the Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería (MAG) explained that from april 25 producers can consult the platform: paquetesagricolas.mag.gob.sv/, call the call center 2210-1714 or write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.., since this year will ensure that the inputs reach real producers, as the Oficina de Vínculo Territorial conducted field verifications.

The Vice-Minister, Óscar Domínguez, explained that this delivery also counts on the collaboration of the municipalities, which is why more than 250 delivery points will be set up to bring the distribution process closer and faster.

The Policía Nacional Civil, the Fuerza Armada and the Legislative Assembly, in addition to the autonomous agencies of MAG, such as the Centro de Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria y Forestal (CENTA), Instituto Salvadoreño de Transformación Agraria (ISTA) and Escuela Nacional de Agricultura (ENA) are joining the effort.

He said that, thanks to the coordinated work, there will be more than 150 technicians from CENTA, ISTA and third year students of the ENA, who will provide assistance and promote GAPs to improve crop yields. In addition, this year more than 250 collaborators from the municipalities were trained, who will accompany the producers in the delivery and planting process.

The director of CENTA, Edgardo Reyes, highlighted the importance of the innovations in the package, since the 25 pounds of H-59 corn, which is adapted to all conditions in the country, will be enough to plant an apple, while for the first time the 15-15-15 formula will be used to supply potassium to the plants and counteract water deficiency.

He also recommended to growers to prepare the land for planting without burning stubble, because by leaving it scattered on the surface of the land, erosion is avoided, water infiltration is favored and adequate soil moisture is maintained.

Translated by: A.M