Antigua and Barbuda has entered what the government is calling a new chapter in food production, achieving national self-sufficiency in eggs and moving toward full independence in poultry meat. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams outlined the progress Thursday during the Throne Speech, highlighting new infrastructure, technology transfers and guaranteed markets for local farmers.
Sir Rodney said egg production has reached the point where the country no longer depends on imports, a milestone driven by growth among dedicated farmers and expanding backyard operations. He added that poultry farmers “are aiming to produce enough chicken meat to reach that capacity also,” with government support continuing to push the sector toward full self-reliance.
As part of that effort, two major processing facilities are in the pipeline. “A new abattoir for the slaughter of chickens will be built, and a modernized abattoir for quadrupeds will also be constructed,” the Governor General said.
Water access—long one of the greatest challenges for local agriculture—is being addressed through targeted investments in on-farm storage. Sir Rodney pointed to “the construction of multiple small dams and ponds” as key to improving resilience and ensuring year-round supply, adding that government is “sparing no effort to assist farmers to create and to manage water supply more efficiently.”
He noted that complete reliance on piped, treated water remains risky, as scientists warn that long-term use “impacts soil health.” Farmers are therefore being encouraged to maintain their own catchment systems while government expands broader production infrastructure.
China also continues to play a role in modernising local farming. Sir Rodney said his government “thanks the People’s Republic of China for its contribution to advancing agricultural output by the transfer of technology which it freely shares,” a reference to ongoing training, research support, and crop-production assistance.
The Central Marketing Corporation (CMC) is also expanding its operations to stabilise farm incomes. According to the Throne Speech, “the CMC has begun to play a very significant role in guaranteeing farmers a market for their products,” with its investment in a new property reflecting an enlarged vision for national food security.
Sir Rodney framed the broader initiative as part of Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to the zero-hunger goal, noting that while import dependence remains high, the country is taking sustained steps to increase local food production and strengthen resilience.
Agriculture currently accounts for 3–5% of the national economy, but the government says new infrastructure, improved water systems and guaranteed markets can lift the sector’s contribution in the years ahead.
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