Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural sector grew by 7% in 2024, contributing $116 million to the country’s GDP, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.
The announcement was made by Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith during a press conference on food security, where he outlined government strategies to sustain and accelerate growth in the sector.
Officials say improvements in water access, road networks, and agricultural stations have helped boost productivity. The government has invested in constructing new dams to improve irrigation, upgrading feeder roads to ease transportation of goods, and rehabilitating key farming hubs such as Christia Valley, Cades Bay, and Green Castle.
“These investments are essential in ensuring long-term growth and making farming a viable industry for more people,” Mr Smith said.
With the average age of farmers in the country over 50, attracting younger generations to agriculture has been a priority.
The government has partnered with the Ministry of Education to establish a School of Agriculture in Bethesda, which will provide specialised training in modern farming techniques. Initiatives like the Antigua and Barbuda Agricultural Youth Forum (ABAFY) are also working to spark interest among school-aged students.
New technology and equipment are being introduced to improve efficiency. Through a partnership with the Caribbean Development Fund (CDF), the government is acquiring heavy-duty agricultural machinery, including tractors and irrigation systems, to assist farmers.
Officials say these measures will help sustain growth by increasing productivity and making the sector more competitive.
“The expansion of agriculture is not just about growing more food,” Mr Smith said. “It’s about ensuring we have the right infrastructure, the right people, and the right technology to support long-term development.”
The Ministry of Agriculture says it will continue working with stakeholders to expand market access, improve food security, and position the sector for further growth in the coming years.
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