A machine said to be particularly critical for T&T’s cocoa farmers will soon be received by the Agriculture Ministry.

This announcement came from Minister Kazim Hosein in a statement commemorating World Soil Day 2024 today.

Minister Hosein said the Ministry will soon get an Emax Machine which will enable cadmium testing in soils.

According to UWI, cadmium can be found as a natural element in volcanic soil and also enter soil through human activities such as improper disposal of industrial waste and the use of contaminated fertilizers.

UWI adds that the element can cause effects in humans including kidney damage, fragile bones, abdominal cramps, headaches, vomiting and diarrhea.

It notes that cocoa is a bioaccumulator of cadmium.

Minister Hosein says the addition of the Emax Machine is crucial for local cocoa farmers who have been calling for support in meeting international export standards.