Food and beverages
Bahamian food and beverages – a premium segment developing
In numbers, the food and beverage industry makes up a small percentage of exports from The Bahamas. However, premium products are arising as part of the country’s strategy to diversify its economy. The Government of The Bahamas is working towards enhancing and growing the industry through the newly established Bahamas Agriculture & Marine Science Institute (BAMSI).
Joint effort to grow
The aim is that more persons would attend BAMSI to study in the agronomic, agro-industrial and subsistence fields. Additionally, the Government has reserved land to expand and improve agriculture in the country exclusively for farming initiatives. The industry is also supported by the Ministry of Agriculture & Marine Resources and the Bahamas Agricultural & Industrial Corporation (BAIC), and various local farming associations and cooperatives.
Key facts
- Exported food exports include citrus products and root vegetables.
- Exported beverage products include beer, aerated waters, and spirits.
- The beverage industry is experiencing high growth with the introduction of new companies producing beers and soft drinks.
- Work has been done recently to ready the industry for the changing world trade environment through drafting new legislation and regulations to support the industry. This includes drafting an Animal Health and Production Bill and adopting Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary Measures in compliance with World Trade Organisation standards.