(MOA Basseterre, St. Kitts, 28 February 2024):
The fisheries sector in St. Kitts and Nevis achieved a historic milestone, generating a record-breaking E.C$19.6 million in revenue, a significant increase from the EC$15.5 million recorded the previous year. This marks the highest figure on record within the last ten years. This remarkable growth underscores the resilience and dedication of the nation’s fisherfolk, as well as the government’s strategic efforts to support and expand the industry.
In a notable development, the remarkable growth, stems particularly from the Reef and Demersal Fishery, which played a major role in driving overall industry expansion. Total catch increased from 1,157,234 pounds in 2023 to 1,567,620 pounds in 2024, representing a 35.4% rise. A significant portion of this growth came from the Reef and Demersal Fishery landings , which experienced an even greater surge. In 2023, landings for this category were 757,143 pounds, but by 2024, they soared to 1,212,687 pounds—an increase of 60.2%. This rapid expansion translated into substantial economic gains as the Reef and Demersal Fishery generated E.C$15,133,117 accounting for 77% of the total fisheries revenue of E.C$19,658,773.
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, Honourable Samal Duggins, hailed this achievement as a testament to the nation‘s commitment to economic development through sustainable fisheries. He emphasized that the success was not incidental but rather the result of strategic governance and visionary leadership.
“This remarkable success is not by chance. It is the product of visionary leadership, sound governance, and strategic action by this administration, which has prioritized empowering our people, strengthening our industries, and ensuring economic prosperity for all. Our fisherfolk have shown unmatched dedication, and as a government, we have stood beside them, providing resources, training, and infrastructure to help them thrive,” Minister Duggins stated.
The government’s role in fostering this growth has been pivotal with investments in modernizing fisheries infrastructure, improving access to financial and technical resources, capacity building and implementing policies to promote sustainable fishing practices.
Minister Duggins also highlighted the essential role of the Department of Marine Resources in supporting fisherfolk and ensuring the sustainability of marine resources. He said, “I want to especially commend the Department of Marine Resources for its commitment to supporting our fisherfolk. This is what happens when leadership delivers, when we invest in our people, and when we build a future that leaves no one behind!”
He further reaffirmed his dedication to advancing the sector, stating, “As the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Marine Resources, I reaffirm my commitment to championing the interests of our hardworking men and women, creating more opportunities, and driving even greater success. This is progress in action! This is leadership that works! Together, we will continue pushing the boundaries, creating waves, and securing a brighter future for St. Kitts and Nevis.”
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