News » 13.11.2025 - Spain: Floriculture in Andacollo thrives despite water shortage

In the El Manzano area of the Andacollo commune, Maritza Cortes grows flowers. Despite the ongoing lack of rainfall in the area, she says she has managed to handle the situation. "I consider myself fortunate," she says.

Her business is called Ferpas, a name that combines those of her daughters, Fernanda and Pascal. Today, her main production is liliums. "They are easier to work with, have a short growth cycle and good commercial demand," she explains. She also grows alstroemeria and has recently added carnations.

Maritza is a user of INDAP, the Agricultural Development Institute. Until 2024 she was part of PADIS, the Agricultural Program for the Integral Development of Small Farmers in the Secano area of the Coquimbo Region. The program is executed by INDAP in partnership with the Municipality of Andacollo and provided her with technical assistance and different types of support for her production units.

She is currently part of the program My First Rural Business through which she has received infrastructure improvements and consulting. "I have a metal greenhouse and it has been essential for my work," she notes.

Regarding the work done by INDAP, Maritza says that the institution "is a fundamental part of my business, because they are always encouraging me to grow and to implement new things."

For INDAP regional director Victor Illanes, her case shows the impact of the program. "What Maritza Cortes is doing in Andacollo is very valuable. She is a young rural producer and we see a strong commitment to improve. We have guided her in this process and we hope to continue supporting her, whether through My First Rural Business or through other programs that address her needs."

Christian Alvarez, regional secretary of Agriculture, highlights that Maritza represents a priority focus. "Supporting new generations of women in agriculture is a key line of work for the administration of President Boric. It involves different ministries and agencies, offering an integrated approach for their development. In this case, we see that INDAP has been essential in Maritza's progress and she continues to advance steadily in floriculture."

"Working in agriculture is important for economic development and for personal growth. And in the future, why not, I hope to generate jobs for more families," Maritza says.

 

Source: www.indap.gob.cl

« Back