As St. Kitts and Nevis moves toward becoming a sustainable island state, the government is focusing on enhancing public health, product quality, and environmental monitoring. Senior Minister, the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas, Minister of International Trade, highlighted these priorities during his impassioned address at the 2025 Budget Debate on 20th December, 2024.
Dr. Douglas revealed that the St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards (SKNBS) is advancing its efforts to achieve international accreditation for chemistry and microbiology testing. These upgrades aim to ensure reliable monitoring of food and water safety, meeting global standards while safeguarding public health.
“We are committed to achieving accreditation that guarantees elevated and reliable testing,” said Dr. Douglas. “This ensures our products meet international benchmarks, securing consumer safety and enhancing our global competitiveness.”
The Bureau also aims to achieve Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification for seafood processing in collaboration with the Department of Marine Resources. This system monitors the food supply chain from harvesting to consumption, reducing the risks of foodborne illnesses and aligning local fisheries with international safety requirements.
In 2025, SKNBS will intensify its environmental health initiatives. Expanded air quality testing and additional environmental monitoring programmes will support public health while advancing the Federation’s commitment to sustainability.
“This expansion underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship and public well-being,” Dr. Douglas explained.
Another major initiative is the establishment of a SKNBS laboratory on Nevis. This branch will operate at the same high standards as the main facility on St. Kitts, ensuring equitable access to quality assurance, environmental monitoring, and consumer protection services for all citizens.
“This move is a testament to our commitment to equitable service delivery across the Federation,” Dr. Douglas noted.
The outlined measures reflect the government’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, public health, and economic progress. By strengthening its standards bureau, the Federation is positioning itself as a regional leader in quality assurance and environmental protection, ensuring a healthier and more competitive future for its people.
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