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Government land for expanded farming, a reservoir under construction and forthcoming grants were among the measures Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. Natalio Wheatley highlighted as evidence of his administration’s support for local food producers.
Speaking at a ceremony marking World Food Day 2026 on Friday October 16, the Premier outlined investments aimed at increasing production and reducing the Territory’s dependence on imports, according to the Government Information Service (GIS).
He said government land had been allocated at Paraquita Bay to expand farming and agricultural production. Construction is also underway on a permanent farmers’ reservoir there to provide irrigation water, with completion scheduled for 2027.
The Agriculture and Fisheries Grant Policy is in effect, with the first tranche of grants in the final administrative stages to support farmers, fisherfolk and food producers.
For the fishing sector, the Government has initiated the process to construct a fish landing site at Omar Hodge Fishermen’s Wharf.
“Every crop planted, every harvest gathered and every catch brought ashore contributes to our collective resilience. Rest assured, you have the support of your Government and the Territory,” the Premier said.
He warned that global disruptions affecting fuel, shipping and supply chains had exposed the vulnerability of small island economies heavily reliant on imports.
“Food security is not simply about agriculture and fisheries. Food security is about national resilience,” he stated.
The Premier called on residents, businesses and institutions, including hotels and restaurants, to prioritise locally produced vegetables, poultry, eggs, meats and seafood when available.
“Buying local keeps more money circulating within our economy, supports Virgin Islands families and businesses, and strengthens our ability to withstand the next international disruption,” he said.
Reflecting on the theme, ‘Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow’, he encouraged the use of new solutions alongside traditional knowledge to build a stronger food system.
He also praised farmers and fisherfolk for their work and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for organising the Farmers Market and Food Fair and promoting food-security awareness in schools and communities.
Speaking at a ceremony marking World Food Day 2026 on Friday October 16, the Premier outlined investments aimed at increasing production and reducing the Territory’s dependence on imports, according to the Government Information Service (GIS).
He said government land had been allocated at Paraquita Bay to expand farming and agricultural production. Construction is also underway on a permanent farmers’ reservoir there to provide irrigation water, with completion scheduled for 2027.
The Agriculture and Fisheries Grant Policy is in effect, with the first tranche of grants in the final administrative stages to support farmers, fisherfolk and food producers.
For the fishing sector, the Government has initiated the process to construct a fish landing site at Omar Hodge Fishermen’s Wharf.
“Every crop planted, every harvest gathered and every catch brought ashore contributes to our collective resilience. Rest assured, you have the support of your Government and the Territory,” the Premier said.
He warned that global disruptions affecting fuel, shipping and supply chains had exposed the vulnerability of small island economies heavily reliant on imports.
“Food security is not simply about agriculture and fisheries. Food security is about national resilience,” he stated.
The Premier called on residents, businesses and institutions, including hotels and restaurants, to prioritise locally produced vegetables, poultry, eggs, meats and seafood when available.
“Buying local keeps more money circulating within our economy, supports Virgin Islands families and businesses, and strengthens our ability to withstand the next international disruption,” he said.
Reflecting on the theme, ‘Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow’, he encouraged the use of new solutions alongside traditional knowledge to build a stronger food system.
He also praised farmers and fisherfolk for their work and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for organising the Farmers Market and Food Fair and promoting food-security awareness in schools and communities.
© 2026 BVI Platinum News. This article is original BVI Platinum content. Reproduction or republication without written permission is prohibited.
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