A panel of experts have been exploring how stronger linkages between agriculture and tourism can unlock economic opportunity, reduce imports and build a more resilient Caribbean food system.
Moderated by Maria Fowell, Senior Technical Specialist — Tourism, OECS Commission and featuring, Alistair Glean, International Specialist, IICA; Shaun Baugh, Program Manager, CARICOM: Caribbean Community; and Shinelle Jamie Smith, Chair of Education, College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago – COSTAATT.
The discussion underscored both the challenges and the opportunities across the region:
- Weak linkages persist — driven by gaps in communication, scale, consistency and planning between farmers and tourism buyers
- Demand exists — but must be better aligned, with greater emphasis on local, authentic cuisine across hotel offerings
- Successful models are emerging — from farm-to-table experiences to cooperatives and supplier networks — but need scaling
- Investment in infrastructure, training and technology is critical to meeting quality, volume and sustainability standards
- Policy, incentives and partnerships can accelerate change — especially when tourism and agriculture work together as one value chain
As highlighted throughout the session, the opportunity is clear: by connecting what the Caribbean grows with what it serves, the region can retain more value, strengthen food security, and deliver richer, more authentic visitor experiences.