Fisheries Sector Set for Major Overhaul by 2028 – Huggins

A photograph of the Minister of Fisheries, Conroy Huggins. This image was obtained from the API.

By Val Matthias. Updated 12:15 p.m., Monday, December 29, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Minister of Fisheries Conroy Huggins has unveiled ambitious plans to transform the nation’s fisheries sector, projecting a complete overhaul by 2028 under a renewed focus on the Blue Economy.

Huggins, who recently toured facilities including the Barroullie Fishery Centre, Chateaubelair, and the Kingstown Fish Market, acknowledged that conditions remain poor but stressed that projects are already in motion. He said rehabilitation works will be carried out under the Family Emergency Recovery Project, with long-neglected sites such as Chateaubelair slated for upgrades, alongside enhancements to the Kingstown Fish Market and other landing facilities.

The Minister emphasized that the fisheries sector, which has contributed about 1.5 percent to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in recent years, is expected to grow significantly by 2026 as new initiatives take root. He underscored the vast potential of the country’s ocean space, nearly ten times larger than its landmass, as a foundation for sustainable wealth creation.

“We want to see fishers not only earn but generate generational wealth,” Huggins said, pointing to the blue economy as the driver of long-term prosperity.

Huggins also highlighted actions taken within his first weeks in office, including the disbursement of long delayed relief payments to fishers affected by Hurricane Beryl. He confirmed that $250 million was processed for beneficiaries who had been awaiting support for more than a year and assured that those who remain unpaid will receive their assistance.

Stakeholder engagement has been central to the Minister’s approach, with more than 75 fishers, suppliers, and vendors participating in consultations. Minister Huggins pledged to continue this level of dialogue, noting that partnerships with donors and financial institutions are being pursued to secure grants and soft loans for sector development.

“The outlook for fisheries and the blue economy is remarkable,” Huggins said. “By 2028, we will see a sector transformed, one that generates wealth sustainably and benefits all Vincentians.”

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