Improved hygiene standards coming for Barrouallie Black Fish Processors
BARROUALLIE BLACK FISH processors will soon operate under improved hygienic conditions when the Bottle and Glass Black Fish Enhancement Project is commissioned.The US$1.68 million project, commenced in the latter part of 2023, but suffered several setbacks due to the impact of Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
The Project, financed by the Government of Japan, was inspected, on Monday, January 19, 2026 by Japan’ s Ambassador to St.Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr.Akima Umezawa, accompanied by Minister with responsibility for Fisheries, Conroy Huggins; Chief Fisheries Officer, Jennifer Cruickshank- Howard; Fisheries Extension Officer, Lorenzo George; and Fisheries Quality Assurance Officer, Cylena Andrews, among others.
Cruickshank Howard, said the facility was built in response to complaints from processors and customers alike, who desired better sanitary conditions for the harvesting, processing, and drying of Black Fish.
She said the facility will raise the standards and productivity of those who ply the trade.
Ambassador Akima Umezawa said he is keen to see the opening of the facility, and commended Minister Huggins and his team for cleaning and preparing the site for his visit. He said the government of Japan has pledged continuous support to fisheries projects in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Meanwhile, the Minister Huggins extended gratitude to Ambassador Akima for his government’s support for the Black Fish Enhancement project. He committed to have the facility open within six months or sooner.
“I…say to the people of Barrouallie and St. Vincent and the Grenadines that before 2026 is out, this facility will be up and running.” (API)
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