When most people think of smoking ganja in the Caribbean, Jamaica immediately springs to mind. However, the sunny vacation destination now faces some stiff competition for cannabis tourism and foreign investment from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).
A southern Caribbean nation, comprising the main island, St. Vincent, and a chain of smaller islands, SVG is a member of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The tiny islands are the first OECS members to decriminalize cannabis for medical purposes and scientific research. Fifteen nations in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) organization also place marijuana decriminalization high on its agenda.
Speaking from SVG, Minister for Agriculture, the Honorable Saboto Ceaser said the passing of the Bill in Parliament on December 11 signifies the Caribbean island is now positioned to become a globally leading medicinal cannabis hub; not only in terms of high-quality production but research, according to an OECS news release.
“The planning of this innovative industry has been carefully conducted over a long period in close consultation with the agricultural sector and many different stakeholders to reach the level of maturity we see today," says Minister Ceaser. “There is broad recognition and buy-in of the economic benefits this tightly controlled and regulated industry is expected to bring regarding direct employment, the creation of support industries and foreign investment."
The minister went on to describe the unique microclimate of the islands boasting, “SVG's growing conditions are suited to producing the highest quality grade medicinal cannabis available on the global market."
His sentiments echo previous, similar claims by Honorable Audley Shaw, Minister of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries of Jamaica.
As with the landrace for Jamaica, foreign investors are already circling SVG like buzzards. The minister points out the "increase in investor sentiment and inquiries we are receiving from both regionally and abroad."
Traditional cultivators, stakeholders and others have joined the Government in celebrating the passing of the Bill as the Government now moves to direct its focus toward implementation of the legal framework for the production of medicinal marijuana.
Not to be confused with Kingston, Jamaica, Kingstown, SVG often contains yacht-filled harbors. Reef-lined Bequia Island off Admiralty Bay, bordered by white-sand beaches including Princess Margaret, are renowned sailing destinations. In addition to boating, cannabis tourism is budding in St. Vincent.
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