The Ministry of Agriculture is boosting local agricultural production, with a special emphasis on mushroom cultivation. In a bid to reduce the dependency on imports and with an aim to create new economic opportunities, the ministry, in collaboration with the Taiwanese Technical Mission, is supporting initiatives such as the Mushroom Collective, established in 2022.

Mr. Jade Hutchinson, President of the Mushroom Collective, highlighted the need to capitalize on the untapped potential of mushroom production in Saint Lucia. He said there exists a vast array of opportunities within the industry.

“In Saint Lucia currently, we import up to $1.3 million worth of fresh and chilled mushrooms annually. On the entire spectrum of opportunities for mushrooms that is only a small part. There is opportunity for fresh and chilled mushrooms, products like dried mushrooms, powdered mushrooms, and these opportunities can go as far as packaging, leather and electronics for mushrooms.”

Mr. Hutchinson underscored the importance of training and technical expertise in expanding the number of mushroom producers on the island.

“We are aware that there exists great job opportunities in increasing the levels of mushroom production locally to substitute imports. We are working to help increase the number of mushroom producers on island by offering training, and thus help to also create new economic avenues for young people.”

Mr. Eugene Gabriel, Public Relations Officer for the Mushroom Collective, emphasized the collective's commitment to sustainability and community development. He stated that by involving groups like the Women's Bloom Project and Boys to Men, they are not only expanding the reach of mushroom production but also fostering a culture of self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship.

“There are so many young people with practical skills and growing mushrooms can keep them gainfully employed and allow them to start their own businesses through entrepreneurship,” he said.

The initiative has been in the works for three years. Efforts have intensified over the past two years to formalize the structure of the Mushroom Collective. The group aims to continue its growth trajectory, nurturing a thriving mushroom industry that contributes to the economic prosperity of Saint Lucia.