by Kevon Browne
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): According to the St. Kitts and Nevis 2023 Voluntary National Review, the fisheries industry contributes 0.5% of the Federation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The importance of the Blue Economy as a potential economic driver for St. Kitts and Nevis and other countries surrounded by water continues to be a talking point as Small Island Developing States transition to self-sustainability.
The Fisheries Sector contributes billions in revenue for more prominent countries, especially countries known for seafood like Japan and South Korea, and provides millions of people with job opportunities.
Caribbean islands have been trying to take advantage of the waters and resources available in these exclusive zones to drive revenue generation and job opportunities while sustaining the resources of the Blue Economy.
On November 21, World Fisheries Day is celebrated worldwide to highlight the importance of sustainable stocks of fisheries in the world, strengthening human rights for small-scale fishing communities, making an actual difference in the working conditions of fishing communities and eliminating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing according to the United Nations.
The theme for this year’s observance is “Casting the Net.”
In an address from the Fisheries Minister, Hon. Samal Duggins, in observance of World Fisheries Day 2023, announced a Week of Activities from November 18 to 25 in St. Kitts and Nevis.
The Minister highlighted that the Blue Economy is integral to ensuring the Federation’s contribution to the CARICOM 25 by 25 agenda.
