Barbadians can expect a plentiful Christmas season with an abundance of locally produced meat and vegetables, according to James Paul, CEO of the Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS).
Mr. Paul, in a recent interview, addressed concerns about food security. He acknowledged the challenges faced by tomato growers due to unpredictable weather patterns. However, he emphasized ongoing efforts to find suitable seed varieties and collaborate with institutions like the University of Calgary for research.
Paul cautioned against relying solely on greenhouses for vegetable production. He stressed the importance of maintaining open-field cultivation practices alongside controlled environments.
Despite the tomato shortage, Paul anticipates an abundance of short-cycle crops like cucumbers and lettuce for the holidays, assuming favorable weather conditions.
The BAS CEO highlighted a surge in young farmers entering the pork sector. These investments are expected to ensure sufficient local pork supplies by year-end, eliminating the need for imports. Paul commended HIPAC Limited for collaborating with local pork producers. He urged other institutions to follow suit and explore partnerships with the BAS to support local production.
Consumers can also expect adequate supplies of locally produced beef and poultry throughout the Christmas season.
Paul expressed disappointment regarding a recent influx of savannah milk from Guyana without consultation with local stakeholders. He called for improved communication and transparency from the Ministry of Agriculture on import decisions that could negatively impact domestic producers.
Paul reiterated the BAS’s commitment to supporting the government’s 25 by 25 initiative, which aims to achieve 25% food security by 2025. He emphasized the willingness and ongoing investments of local farmers to contribute to this goal.
Mr.Paul shared his optimism for a robust Christmas season featuring plentiful locally produced food options for Barbadian consumers.