Basseterre, St. Kitts — St. Kitts and Nevis is taking a leading role in advancing regional agricultural transformation, following the appointment of the Honourable Samal Duggins, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, as Chair of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Council of Ministers for Agriculture.
The chairmanship places St. Kitts and Nevis at the forefront of regional efforts to strengthen food and nutrition security, accelerate agricultural development, enhance intra-regional trade, and build more resilient and sustainable food systems across the Eastern Caribbean.
Under Minister Duggins’ leadership, the focus will be on translating regional commitments into measurable action through five strategic priorities aligned with the OECS Food and Agriculture Systems Transformation (FAST) Strategy.
These priorities include:
Accelerating implementation: Moving beyond policy reviews to establish clear timelines, defined responsibilities, and tangible outcomes for regional agricultural initiatives.
Strengthening collective purchasing power: Leveraging the combined buying capacity of OECS Member States to improve access to agricultural inputs and essential supplies.
Improving regional maritime connectivity: Advancing dedicated regional shipping corridors to facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and strengthen trade among Member States.
Harmonising standards: Promoting greater alignment of agricultural regulations and food safety standards to facilitate trade and improve market access.
Safeguarding productive resources: Protecting the essential foundations of agriculture, including seeds, soil, water, and pollinators, to support long-term productivity and environmental sustainability.
As Chair of the Council, Minister Duggins has underscored the importance of removing barriers to intra-regional trade, strengthening international partnerships, and expanding opportunities for women and young people to participate in and benefit from the agricultural sector.
These priorities reflect the need for a more coordinated regional approach to addressing persistent challenges, including food import dependence, high production and transportation costs, climate vulnerability, and the need for stronger agricultural value chains.
For St. Kitts and Nevis, the chairmanship represents an important opportunity to contribute to regional policy direction, strengthen collaboration among OECS Member States, and advance practical solutions that support farmers, agribusinesses, and consumers throughout the region.
By championing implementation, regional cooperation, and sustainable production, St. Kitts and Nevis is helping to advance a shared vision of a more connected, competitive, and resilient agricultural sector—one that strengthens food security, creates economic opportunities, and supports the region’s long-term development.
From regional commitments to measurable action, St. Kitts and Nevis is helping to shape a stronger and more secure food future for the Eastern Caribbean.
