Record Revenue Growth in the St. Kitts and Nevis Fisheries Sector for 2024.

The twin-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis has witnessed a remarkable surge in its fisheries sector, achieving a record-breaking revenue of EC$19.6 million in 2024. This represents a substantial increase from the EC$15.5 million earned in the previous year and marks the highest revenue generated by the sector in the past decade. This unprecedented growth underscores the resilience and hard work of the nation’s fisherfolk, coupled with the government’s strategic interventions and investments aimed at bolstering the industry. The success story serves as a testament to the effectiveness of targeted policies and the positive impact of public-private partnerships in driving economic growth and ensuring sustainable development within the fisheries sector.

A deeper analysis of the contributing factors reveals that the Reef and Demersal Fishery played a pivotal role in propelling the overall growth of the sector. The total catch witnessed a significant increase, rising from 1,157,234 pounds in 2023 to 1,567,620 pounds in 2024, marking a 35.4% surge. However, the most dramatic increase was observed within the Reef and Demersal Fishery landings, which experienced a remarkable 60.2% jump, from 757,143 pounds in 2023 to an impressive 1,212,687 pounds in 2024. This substantial increase in landings translated directly into increased revenue, with the Reef and Demersal Fishery generating EC$15,133,117, accounting for a lion’s share of 77% of the total fisheries revenue of EC$19,658,773. This highlights the importance of this specific fishery as a key driver of economic activity within the broader fisheries sector.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, Honourable Samal Duggins, attributed this historic achievement to the government’s strategic vision and proactive approach towards empowering the fishing community and fostering sustainable practices. He emphasized that the success was not merely a fortuitous event, but rather the result of deliberate policies and investments aimed at modernizing infrastructure, enhancing access to financial and technical resources, and strengthening the capacity of fisherfolk. The Minister lauded the dedication of the fisherfolk and highlighted the government’s commitment to providing the necessary support for their continued growth and prosperity.

The government’s commitment to the fisheries sector is evident in its multi-pronged approach to development. This includes investments in modernizing fishing infrastructure, offering training programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of fisherfolk, and implementing policies that promote sustainable fishing practices. By providing access to financial resources and technical assistance, the government has empowered fisherfolk to adopt improved techniques, invest in better equipment, and operate more efficiently. This proactive approach has not only boosted productivity but has also contributed to the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Minister Duggins also acknowledged the significant contribution of the Department of Marine Resources in supporting the fisherfolk and ensuring the responsible management of marine resources. He praised the department’s commitment to working closely with the fishing community, providing guidance and assistance, and promoting practices that ensure the health and sustainability of the marine ecosystem. The collaborative efforts between the government, the Department of Marine Resources, and the fisherfolk have created a synergistic environment that has fostered growth and ensured the responsible utilization of marine resources.

Looking forward, Minister Duggins reiterated his commitment to championing the interests of the fisherfolk, creating further opportunities for growth, and driving even greater success within the sector. He underscored the government’s dedication to investing in its people and building a future that ensures economic prosperity for all. This commitment to continued support and development signals a bright future for the fisheries sector in St. Kitts and Nevis, promising continued growth and prosperity for the island nation.