Irish produce giant Fyffes has reportedly decided to close one of its three Honduran melon farms, with local media alleging the move is linked to some workers' plans to form a union. 

Website Laprensa.hn said the farm based in Santa Ana de Yusguare was owned by the multinational's subsidiary, Melon Export S.A. (Melexsa), and covered around 900 hectares.

The story claimed Fyffes's decision was partly due to the fact that some seasonal workers on the farm were attempting to establish a subsection of The Union of Agroindustrial Workers (STAS).

Agriculture Minster Jacobo Alberto Paz Bodden reportedly said executives from Fyffes, known as Grupo Sol in the Central American country, had informed him of their decision to discontinue operations.

The minister said the group's move was also based on the competitive advantages of operating out of neighboring Guatemala, given the reduced production and transportation costs, according to the story.

The farm's closure will reportedly affect more than 100 permanent jobs.

Photo: www.shutterstock.com

www.freshfruitportal.com