St. Kitts Department of Agriculture Releases Summer Produce Forecast and Encourages Stakeholder Prioritization of Locally-Sourced Produce

The Department of Agriculture in St. Kitts has released its preliminary summer produce forecast for June and July 2025, offering an early glimpse into the anticipated bounty of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. This forecast serves as a valuable resource for farmers, vendors, wholesalers, and other stakeholders, enabling them to plan their procurement and sales strategies while contributing to the island’s food security and economic stability. The Department emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders in strengthening the local agricultural sector and expressed gratitude for their continued commitment.

The forecast paints a picture of a diverse and abundant harvest, with a wide range of fresh produce expected to be available in the coming summer months. Fruit enthusiasts can look forward to a delightful selection, including plantains, green bananas, the tropical sweetness of mangoes and papayas, the refreshing juiciness of watermelons, cantaloupes, and honeydew melons, and the tangy zest of pineapples. This variety caters to a wide range of tastes and culinary applications, providing consumers with ample options for healthy and flavorful meals. The availability of these fresh, locally-sourced fruits will not only benefit consumers but also support the livelihood of local farmers.

Leafy greens and herbs, essential components of a balanced diet, are also prominently featured in the forecast. Crisp lettuce, vibrant cabbage, aromatic thyme and scallion, and other fresh herbs are all expected to be readily available. These ingredients promise to add flavor and nutritional value to summer meals, enhancing culinary creations and promoting healthy eating habits. The abundance of these greens and herbs reflects the island’s commitment to promoting a diverse and nutritious agricultural landscape.

Moving on to vegetables, the forecast predicts a steady supply of staples such as tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet peppers, seasoning peppers, and eggplant. These versatile vegetables form the foundation of countless dishes, providing essential nutrients and culinary versatility. Alongside these, consumers can expect a healthy supply of root crops like carrots, sweet potatoes, and onions, all essential ingredients in a variety of cuisines. The forecasted availability of these vegetables underscores the island’s commitment to ensuring a consistent supply of fresh produce for its residents.

The forecast also extends to other categories, including vine crops like pumpkin and squash, and grains like locally grown corn. These additions further diversify the anticipated summer harvest, offering consumers a broader range of culinary options and supporting the growth of a more comprehensive local agricultural sector. The inclusion of these crops highlights the Department of Agriculture’s focus on promoting a diverse and resilient agricultural system.

The Department of Agriculture strongly encourages all stakeholders to prioritize the consumption and utilization of locally grown produce, emphasizing that this practice strengthens the local agricultural sector, reduces reliance on imports, and ensures access to fresh, high-quality food for consumers. By prioritizing local sourcing, the island nation can bolster its food security, support the livelihoods of local farmers, and reduce the environmental impact associated with importing produce. This call to action emphasizes the importance of community support in building a sustainable and thriving agricultural sector.

In closing, the Department of Agriculture expresses sincere gratitude to all stakeholders for their continued partnership and support, recognizing their crucial role in ensuring a thriving local food system. The Department invites stakeholders to actively engage with the Marketing Unit for order placement, sourcing assistance, and connections with local producers, fostering a collaborative approach to strengthening the island’s agricultural landscape. This collaborative spirit, combined with the expected abundance of fresh produce, promises a vibrant and fruitful summer season for St. Kitts’ agricultural sector.