Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is an island state in the eastern Caribbean Sea, located between Saint Lucia to the north and Grenada to the south. The country consists of the main island of Saint Vincent and a chain of smaller islands known as the Grenadines, with a total land area of approximately 389 km² and a population of about 110,000 people. The landscape is mountainous and volcanic in origin, dominated by La Soufrière, an active stratovolcano rising to 1,234 m above sea level. The island’s fertile volcanic soils and tropical maritime climate—with a wet season from June to November—create favorable conditions for agriculture, although steep terrain limits large-scale cultivation.
Historically, Saint Vincent was inhabited by Indigenous Carib peoples before becoming contested by European colonial powers. Britain gained formal control in the 18th century, and plantation agriculture based on sugar production developed using enslaved African labor. Following emancipation in 1834, plantation agriculture declined and was gradually replaced by smallholder farming. The country gained independence in 1979, inheriting an economy still shaped by export-oriented agriculture.
Today, the primary sector remains important for employment and rural livelihoods. Agriculture contributes roughly 7–8% of GDP and employs about 20% of the workforce. Around 18–20% of land is used for agriculture, with bananas historically serving as the main export crop. During the late 20th century, bananas dominated agricultural exports under preferential trade arrangements, though their importance has declined due to changing market conditions and competition. Other crops include arrowroot, root crops and fruits for both domestic use and export.
Forests cover approximately 65–70% of the country’s land area, particularly in mountainous interior regions. While forestry contributes modestly to direct economic output, it plays a crucial role in protecting watersheds and preventing soil erosion, especially given the island’s steep slopes.
Fisheries are also significant for coastal communities, contributing around 2–3% of GDP. The sector is largely artisanal, with catches including tuna, snapper and lobster. Fishing supports both local consumption and small-scale export markets.
Overall, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ primary sector reflects the influence of geography and colonial history. Volcanic soils and a humid climate support agriculture, while mountainous terrain encourages small-scale farming rather than plantation systems. Despite the growing importance of tourism and services, agriculture, forestry and fisheries remain vital for employment, food security and rural development.
In 2018 Gerold stayed for 3 days on Saint Vincent in a B&B, with friendly owners who took him to dinner and told him a lot about the island / the state from their point of view. He also met Paul Warren, 70 years old, 189 countries from Boston. They talked a lot about their tours.