Caribbean ministers call for agricultural trade reforms

During the Caribbean Week of Agriculture 2026 in Jamaica, regional ministers called for urgent reforms to improve trade and supply chain connectivity between Caribbean farmers and the tourism sector.

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett proposed the establishment of a Caribbean Tourism Agricultural Logistics Centre. This facility would serve as a regional repository for fresh commodities and processed goods—such as juices and jams—to prevent the loss of potential earnings caused by current import leaks. Bartlett also suggested expanding Jamaica’s Agri-Linkages Exchange (ALEX) platform into a regional system, harmonizing agricultural standards, and creating dedicated loan programs for small farmers.

Saint Lucian Agriculture Minister Lisa Jawahir emphasized the need for faster action regarding the movement of goods and livestock across the region. She highlighted the lack of progress on a regional vessel for transporting livestock between islands and noted the importance of establishing satellite abattoirs to support local production and meet regional standards.