The Minister of Agriculture, Anthony Smith Jnr., has announced a number of government initiatives designed to develop and expand the operations of the Central Marketing Corporation (CMC).
Speaking in parliament on Wednesday, Minister Smith said the initiatives include the recent acquisition of the Ken’s Club Property on Utility Drive where the government spent $9 million to transform the property into a major wholesale outlet for CMC.
“This acquisition will position us to better support our local farmers by providing expanded opportunities to sell their produce and meats. In addition, Mr. Speaker, CMC will be constructing both dry and cold storage facilities to further strengthen our farmers’ ability to supply the market consistently and efficiently.
“CMC will also be establishing an agro-processing facility at the new location. This 15-million-dollar project will create hundreds of jobs and will be a true game changer for farmers across Antigua and Barbuda. Let me make it clear, Mr. Speaker: CMC outlets are not intended to compete with local supermarkets,” he stated.
He described CMC’s purpose as helping to stabilize supply chains, ensure affordability, and provide low-cost, nutritious, locally grown food options to the people, especially the most vulnerable.
“The government must play an active role in helping to keep the cost of living down, and this investment is a direct reflection of that responsibility,” he remarked.
Beyond the developments related to CMC, the minister also announced major plans for Diamond Estate where the intention is to build an agro-industrial ecosystem.
“Mr. Speaker, our commitment to transforming agriculture goes beyond primary production, we are building an entire agro-industrial ecosystem. At Diamonds Estate, we are developing a full Agro-Industrial Park that will include a feed mill, light manufacturing operations, and modern packaging facilities. This will significantly boost value-added production and reduce our dependence on imported inputs,” he revealed.
Meanwhile, he added, at Christian Valley, the ministry is advancing an Agro-Eco Industry that merges agriculture with ecotourism, including plans for eco-lodges and educational tourism experiences. “Together, these initiatives will create new jobs, stimulate innovation, attract investment, and solidify Antigua and Barbuda as a regional leader in sustainable agro-industrial development,” Minister Smith declared.
