The Medicinal Cannabis (R)evolution

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Figure 2: Contribution of the Agricultural Sector to ECCU GDP

St Vincent and the Grenadines has identified the agricultural sector as one of the most promising sectors for the development of its cannabis industry. Despite the decline in agriculture’s contribution to GDP, the sector continues to have a fundamental role in the economic development of St Vincent and the Grenadines and many other member countries of the ECCU. In setting its rationale for developing the sector, the Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines underscored that the country’s ideal location, favourable climatic conditions, arable land and significant agricultural experience were all expected to give the country a competitive advantage in the industry’s development ( see below ). St Vincent and the Grenadines announced its intention to be a lead producer of organically certified medicinal cannabis, rivalling any other producer in the Western Hemisphere. Minister of Agriculture, Honourable Saboto Caesar indicated that the industry provides a unique opportunity for small island states, such as St Vincent and the Grenadines, to transform rural livelihoods and communities while changing the lives of patients who suffer medical conditions that are unresponsive to traditional pharmaceutical treatments. The Minister has identified 30 competitive advantages that St Vincent possesses relative to other larger markets such as the United States of America, Canada and Europe. These include the rich, volcanic soil and tropical climate which facilitate low-cost production, more than 2000 traditional cannabis farmers and the country’s significant experience in cannabis cultivation. Source: OECS