Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called for the establishment of a local animal feed industry in Antigua and Barbuda to help reduce reliance on costly imports and support the agricultural sector. Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne emphasized the need for the country to utilize by-products from fishing and farming to create sustainable and cost-effective feed solutions for livestock and poultry farmers.
“We need to take a more integrated approach to agriculture by producing our own animal feed,” Browne stated. “By using fish remains, crop waste, and other organic materials, we can develop a domestic feed industry that not only reduces costs for farmers but also strengthens our food security.”
Browne pointed out that imported feed constitutes a significant portion of local agricultural expenses, making it difficult for farmers to maintain profitability. By investing in local feed production, the country can improve its agricultural sustainability while keeping prices stable for consumers.
The Prime Minister highlighted ongoing efforts to support the sector, including plans to establish small-scale feed mills and encourage investments in agricultural research to develop high-quality, locally produced feed. He also mentioned that government incentives would be considered to encourage private sector participation in this initiative.
“The cost of imported feed is a major burden on our farmers,” Browne said. “If we can create a sustainable, locally produced feed supply, it will significantly cut operational expenses and boost productivity.”
Browne’s call aligns with broader efforts to enhance food security and economic resilience in Antigua and Barbuda. By reducing dependency on external markets for essential agricultural inputs, the country can better withstand global price fluctuations and trade disruptions.
As part of this initiative, Browne encouraged collaboration between government agencies, farmers, and investors to develop innovative feed production methods using available local resources. He stressed that a successful transition to local feed production would require strategic investments in technology, infrastructure, and education to ensure efficiency and quality standards are met.
With global supply chains facing increasing disruptions, Browne’s proposal highlights the importance of self-sufficiency in agricultural production. Establishing a local feed industry not only supports farmers but also contributes to national economic stability and long-term growth in the agricultural sector.
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