Severe weather events have had a severe impact on the agricultural sector in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This phenomenon is expected to impact the anticipated volume of agricultural produce for the Christmas period.

In an interview with NBC Radio News, Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar said site visits to vegetable farmers will continue this week, with over 200 vegetable farmers already reporting damage from the rains.

Minister Caesar said that since this is a holiday period, there will be an increase in demand for food, which will in turn lead to an increase in the price of produce.

"What is different about 2024 Christmas though, 1. It's our first Christmas with Sandals, the Holiday Inn, and the expansion of many hospitality plans. It means that locally there is an increase in demand for food because of the increase in our room stock. When we speak about more flights coming to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines it can be extrapolated that we have more persons to feed."

The Minister said the Ministry will be monitoring the issue closely.

"I am going to calculate the value of the damage and loss, and we are going to see how we can work with these farmers to assist them. Climate Change will continue to impact small farmers throughout the world."

SOURCE: National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC Radio)