An imperative for Caribbean agricultural development: boutique agriculture

Abstract

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The desire to develop strategies tailored to foreseeable situations to contrast adverse effects and promote growth and development is emphasized. In this context the agricultural sector and its modernization has a role to play as the engine of economic reactivation. The document considers the need to reassess Caribbean agriculture. A reevalution of agriculture's role is necessary, especially now, when the terms of the external trade relationship with the European Community are being questioned. Table 3 and 4 in the annexes show the ratio of leading commodity exports to total exports. It recommends the following to be introduced as boutique products: papayas, mangos, abvocados, ackees, breadfruit, limes, squash, dasheen, yams, ginger, pimento, peppers, nutmeg, exotic flowers and filiage, non-traditional tropical fruits, and spices, among others.