The Cabinet of Ministers has approved key recommendations from the 4th Joint Meeting of the Task Force to Monitor and Evaluate the Effects of Changes in the Trade Policies of the United States of America on Saint Lucia.

Key approvals include:

• Independent Feed Study: The Ministry of Agriculture will commission an urgent independent study to compare the nutrient content and feed integrity of local versus imported animal feed, addressing potential deficiencies affecting animal health and farmers’ profitability and livelihood.
• Financing Plan 2025–2027: The Ministry of Agriculture will develop a comprehensive financing plan for the implementation of the Strategic Plan for Boosting Food Production over the next three years.
• National Food & Nutrition Security Task Force: A multisectoral Task Force to be established, comprising representatives from the Ministries of Agriculture (Chair), Health (Co-Chair), Commerce, Education, and Equity, to draft and roll out a National Food & Nutrition Security Policy and Action Plan for 2025–2030.
• Meat Processing Facility: The Ministry of Agriculture is to explore and design a proposal for establishing a national meat processing facility—due for Cabinet’s review by 30 November 2025—to enhance local meat quality, availability, and food safety standards.
• SPS Legislation: The Attorney General’s Chambers will fast track the finalization of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) legislation.

These strategic actions reflect the government’s commitment to build resilience in Saint Lucia’s food systems. By enhancing local feed quality, securing dedicated financing, and establishing pivotal infrastructure, we safeguard our producers and consumers in an evolving global trade landscape.

. . . . . . . .
About the Joint Ministerial Task Force - The Task Force was established in March 2025, bringing together key ministries and private sector representatives to monitor shifts in the United States’ trade policies and make recommendations to the Cabinet of Ministers and the private sector to mitigate any harmful effects or take advantage of any opportunities which may arise from these changes, to build our nation’s resilience.