Prime Minister Gaston Browne revealed this during the presentation of the last budget: Agriculture contributed $116 to the GDP in 2024.

In addition, he said that agriculture is projected to grow by at least 7 percent.

PM Browne said though its contribution to national output is small relative to other sectors, agriculture remains a cornerstone of our efforts to build a sustainable, resilient, and self-reliant nation.

“Despite the challenges faced in 2024, we are making notable strides toward transforming the sector into one that ensures food security, creates economic opportunities, and adapts to the impacts of climate change,” he said

Adding, “specifically, crop production increased 16 per cent while livestock production expanded by 3 per cent”, he said

Meanwhile, the government intends to invest what PM Browe said substantial resources to enhance the agricultural sector’s capacity in 2025

“We recognise agriculture’s success also hinges on collaboration and consumer support.  Therefore, early in the new year, our government will host an agricultural symposium that will bring farmers, distributors and investors together to catalyze more investments in the sector,” he added

In addition, the ABLP government will increase our beneficial concessions to farmers, as well as our technical support and subsidies, in 2025. This initiative aims to boost domestic food production and reduce the growing import bill.

The Central Marketing Corporation (CMC) will be tasked with playing a crucial role in connecting local demand for fresh, healthy produce and meats with the harvest supplied by our farmers, he said

In 2025, the CMC will also expand its “Buy Local” initiative, which provides a platform to promote and distribute locally produced goods.

For any produce and meats that are available locally, import taxes and duties will apply to CMC imports of those products.

This effort is designed to support local businesses, enhance economic output, and lessen our reliance on imports.