SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS MAKING SIGNIFICANT STRIDES IN CARICOM’S 25 BY 2025 INITIATIVE TO REDUCE FOOD IMPORT COSTS

BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts, March 06, 2025 (SKNIS) – At the conclusion of the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Barbados on February 21, regional leaders agreed to extend the 25 by 2025 initiative by five years. This decision was made in response to challenges such as global trade uncertainties and the impact of natural disasters in the region.

The 25 by 2025 initiative originally aimed to reduce the region’s Six ($6) billion food import bill by 25 percent by the end of 2025. With the extension, the target date is now 2030, with additional goals introduced.

Despite this extension, Minister of Agriculture, the Honourable Samal Duggins, stated during the Prime Minister’s Press Conference on March 06, 2025, that Saint Kitts and Nevis is progressing to meet the original target through farmer training, provision of resources, and technical assistance.

“I am happy to note that we have been doing exceptionally well in achieving this,” Minister Duggins said. “Our fisheries sector generated $19.6 million in revenue last year alone. That was a significant increase [in comparison] to when we got into office where the number on the books was $8.5 million, so you see, we would have more than doubled that revenue over the last two years.”

The minister also highlighted notable growth in the livestock and crop sectors.

“We launched the largest planting programme last year, and the bananas and pineapples that were planted are scheduled to be harvested this year, with some already in fruit,” he added.

To further support local farmers, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis, through the Department of Agriculture, has provided high-quality planting materials, drought-tolerant crops, and other essential inputs; introduced new goat breeds through its Goat Breeding Programme, and conducted extensive training and consultations with small ruminant farmers.

Additionally, the Layer Chicken Breeder Farm and Hatchery Facility at the Bayford’s Livestock Centre of Excellence is now operational. This facility is expected to significantly boost poultry production in Saint Kitts, strengthening food security and promoting agricultural sustainability.

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