Country Profile

Antigua and Barbuda covers an overall land area of 443 km2 (170 mi2). The economy is service based, with tourism, financial, and government services representing the key sources of employment and income; tourism is the leading foreign exchange earner. GDP per Agriculture contributed 3.8 % of Gross Domestic Product in 2009 and GDP per capita was estimated at US$17,800 in 2009. The main agricultural products are fruits, vegetables, bananas, coconuts, and livestock amongst other commodities, and are mainly focused on the domestic market.

Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) Strategic Plan 2018-2022

Antigua and Barbuda has been strategically positioned to treat with research interventions with respect to agricultural water use, water resource management and water harvesting. As part of its focus, priority will be given to determining water use indices for a range of commodities as well as assessing water demand profiles. This will be integrated with research for technological solutions rewater harvesting, water management and water use efficiency. Variety trials and performance testing for commodities such as cassava, sweet potato and corn will be undertaken with linkages to value chain assessments, market studies and investment profiles. Niche commodities will also be explored such as marijuana/industrial hemp production and industry development for various value added products. Significant work will also be done with respect to policy development, assistance in national programme development, and the development of alternative production systems such as organic and hydroponic/aquaponics production.

Download CARDI STRATEGIC PLAN 2018- 2022