Saint Lucia and Indonesia Strengthen Agricultural Partnership to Boost Coconut and Fruit Processing

Saint Lucia’s agricultural sector is poised for renewed growth as the Government of Saint Lucia, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development, continues to advance its bilateral partnership with the Government of Indonesia. The two countries reaffirmed this commitment during a high-level meeting held in Castries, where both delegations reviewed progress made and outlined a shared vision for expanding collaboration in priority agricultural areas.

The meeting reviewed earlier field assessments conducted by the Indonesian delegation, which identified opportunities to modernize coconut processing, upgrade equipment, and increase acreage of varieties suitable for oil production. The roadmap also outlines areas for future collaboration, including the processing of mangoes, breadfruit, and other priority fruits beginning in 2026.

Director of Agricultural Services Kemuel Jn Baptiste highlighted the significance of the engagement in reaffirming the commitments of both nations.“This morning’s conversation was an affirmation of what is outlined in the roadmap. Saint Lucia will provide staff and technical support, while the Indonesian government will assist with plants and equipment. Although we are 18,000 kilometers apart, as developing nations we must continue to work together and collaborate,”noted Director, Jn. Baptiste.

Indonesian Team Representative Herry Laksono expressed his government’s continued dedication to strengthening ties with Saint Lucia.“We are here to expand our cooperation with Saint Lucia, which has become our priority partner in the Caribbean. Although we are far apart, we share similar development goals and must work together,” he noted.

Indonesia and Saint Lucia have enjoyed diplomatic relations since 1994, with recent collaborations including capacity-building in coconut product development and training exchanges for Saint Lucian participants.

The Ministry noted that this strengthened partnership will support economic diversification, enhance agro-processing, and create new opportunities for farmers and rural communities