Suriname - Agriculture Suriname - Agriculture
Suriname’s abundant rainforest contains many valuable hardwood tree species. A sizeable portion of production remains in the local market as the industry has been unable to compete in quantity, quality, or price with large logging companies in the region. Palmera Wood Ltd and Wintrip International Ltd are the largest timber-exporting companies in Suriname. In 2016, the total export value of timber was U$-40.5 million and Suriname exported hardwoods to Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean region, with Asia representing the largest market.
Suriname exports wild–harvested shrimp. The Southern Pink Shrimp is primarily exported to Japan, while the Seabob Shrimp goes to the United States and Europe. Two small-scale aquaculture enterprises farm in the Commewijne district, east of Paramaribo.
Opportunities exist for “fresh catch” seafood and aquaculture. There are many fish species in Suriname‘s coastal waters, and some--including Red Snapper, Mackerel, Wahoo, and Yellowfin Tuna--are exported to the United States. The export value of fish and shrimp in 2016 amounted to $-48 million. The United States certified Suriname as a Turtle Exclusionary Device (TEDS)-compliant country during regular assessments.