OECS Council of Ministers for Agriculture Report Progress at Meetings

By Caribbean Business Report

The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States has taken proactive steps that will cultivate a sustainable future in agriculture among members. Ministers and technical staff for Agriculture in the OECS met for a special meeting on May 2, 2025, at Myah’s Hotel in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Director General of the OECS Commission Dr. Didacus Jules in his presentation explained that OECS countries are currently importing up to 90% of their food which is largely influenced by the tourism sector.

Ministers agreed that agricultural development must go beyond production increases, requiring a systems-based approach that incorporates transportation, packaging, standards support, and farmer assistance. Among the major decisions taken during the meeting were:

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• Three New Pillars for Resilience & Autonomy – A framework focusing on local production, regional trade, and strategic self-reliance with an implementation timeline from 2025 to 2035.

• Agriculture & Fisheries Insurance Scheme – To protect farmers against natural disasters and climate shocks.

• Scaling Up Sweet & White Potato Production – Training programs will be implemented across Member States to increase local food availability.

• Strategic Partnerships with Africa to boost production of trade in select commodities.

• Flagship Agricultural Interventions (2025–2027) – Including a regional food buffer stock, digital food sovereignty dashboard, agro-Small Micro Enterprise (SME) financing via diaspora bonds, and solar-powered cold storage and irrigation hubs.

• Governance & Monitoring Frameworks – Establishment of the OECS Food Sovereignty and Resilience Council to oversee implementation efforts and coordinate responses to food crises.