Barbados and India sign agreement to establish coconut processing plant

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC)  – The Government of Barbados and the Republic of India recently signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a state-of-the-art Coconut Processing Plant on the island.

The signing of the MOU is seen as a bold step toward enhancing food processing capabilities and deepening bilateral cooperation.

The agreement marks a significant stride in Barbados’ re-industrialisation efforts and reflects a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic transformation through agro-processing.

Speaking at the event, CEO of Export Barbados, Mark Hill, emphasised the strategic value of the project.

“This investment allows us to leverage technology from India as part of our broader re-industrialisation strategy,” he stated.

“It’s not just about coconuts it’s about building full value chains, fostering innovation, and setting the foundation for future partnerships. We are thankful to the Government of India for this generous contribution and rest assured, we’ll be back for more.”

Minister of Industry, Innovation, Science and Technology, Johnathan Reid, highlighted the potential for deeper collaboration beyond the coconut sector.

“India is a global leader in digital public infrastructure and payment platforms. We are eager to explore those opportunities in tandem with agro-industrial growth. I see many more projects on the horizon,” he said.

Indian High Commissioner to Barbados,  Subhash P. Gupta, also welcomed the partnership and outlined India’s regional efforts in food processing, citing ongoing projects in Suriname and St Vincent. He noted that the Barbados facility, focused on coconut processing, would be the first of its kind and could serve as a model for full-chain value extraction.

“From coconut water to pulp to biodegradable coir for rope and gardening every part has value. We are excited to bring this model to Barbados,” he remarked.

Gupta also extended an invitation for a Barbadian delegation to visit Kerala, India, a region renowned for its coconut industry offering full logistical support to enhance knowledge exchange and capacity building.

Reid further underscored the importance of integrating coconut-based biogas opportunities and maximizing every component of the coconut to align with Barbados’ sustainability agenda.

This new plant is expected to create employment, support small and medium enterprises, reduce waste, and boost export potential by transforming coconuts into high-value goods. It also aligns with the country’s push to deepen industrial linkages and adopt green manufacturing practices.

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