The National Fair-Trade Organization (NFTO) has successfully dispatched the inaugural shipment of Saint Lucia's premium bananas to Canada. This initiative aligns with Caricom's 25 by 25 agenda, which seeks to diminish import reliance and bolster export operations within the Caribbean, thereby fostering economic self-sufficiency and augmenting local income through indigenous products.
Saint Lucia, renowned for its rich biodiversity and vibrant rainforests, produces bananas that are celebrated nationally. The cultivation techniques employed by local farmers contribute to the fruit's uniqueness, making it a staple at national festivals like Taste Saint Lucia and Export Saint Lucia, where diverse banana varieties are exhibited.
During the Taste of Saint Lucia event in October 2024, 60 local manufacturers along with tourism stakeholders showcased their products, including bananas, to promote symbiotic relationships between the visitors and the local business ecosystem. The event attracted over 200 attendees from various regions, providing a platform for international exposure.
Additionally, on October 18, 2024, Saint Lucia marked another milestone by exporting premium dasheen from Fond St Jacques, following global demand witnessed at the Taste of Saint Lucia event. This venture into the international market is set to support local farmers and manufacturers, aiming to create sustainable export opportunities for Saint Lucia's dasheen and bananas.
Source: WIC News