The regional food terminal aimed at boosting food security and trade across the Caribbean is expected to break ground in Barbados later this year.
Acting Chief Agricultural Officer Michael James made the announcement on Thursday while delivering remarks on behalf of Minister of Agriculture Indar Weir, at the opening of the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association’s International Business Conference.
He said the terminal, being developed in partnership with Guyana, will serve as a regional hub for storing, processing and distributing agricultural products.
The project is expected to take about eight months to complete once construction begins.
“This terminal is expected to enhance the economic development of both Guyana and Barbados while supporting the wider regional food security agenda,” James said.
The Ministry of Agriculture is also seeking private sector support to help meet the expanded 25 by 25 (plus five) regional target to reduce the food import bill by 25 per cent by 2030.
James also highlighted plans to modernise the agriculture sector with the introduction of vertical farming, tissue culture, and expanded training opportunities. He noted that the Barbados Institute of Food and Agriculture in St Lucy is expected to open next year, while a Centre for Food Security and Entrepreneurship is planned for Dukes, St Thomas.
James said the ministry is working to reshape agriculture into a career path that embraces innovation, agro-processing and value-added production.
“We cannot truly become food secure unless we seek to establish food sovereignty,” he said. “Grow what we eat, and eat what we grow.” (SM)
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