CED hosts forum to help boost agro-processing

THE Centre for Enterprise Development (CED) is set to organise its first agro-processing forum on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at which it will host 40 entrepreneurs who add value to agricultural produce by manufacturing various products.

The forum will explore the current landscape of agro-processing in St.Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), evaluate its growth potential, and recommend actionable policies/strategies for its sustainable development, CED said in a release.

Its goals are to examine the current scenario of the agro-processing industry in St.Vincent and the Grenadines, identify key opportunities in the sector for economic growth and rural development, analyse major challenges impeding the growth of the industry, and suggest policy recommendations for sustainable development.

CED General Manager Ronette Lewis, and head of the Department of Private Sector Development, Christo Primus will make remarks at the forum that will also feature breakout sessions on relevant topics

to fuel discussions among agro-processors regarding their experiences, challenges and vision for the sector.

CED noted in its release that agro-processing has the potential to uplift the economy but faces numerous challenges. Limited access to credit, raw material availability, market access, competition from imported goods, and a lack of technical skills have been listed as issues that hinder its expansion.

The agro-processing forum is slated to take place at the Methodist Church Hall from 9:00 a.m. to noon; and interested persons are invited to register at: https://forms. gle/vamgiVcdQfFX99aV8.