The Sustainability of White Potato Production in St. Kitts

White potato production in St. Kitts was re-introduced in 1985 and has shown dramatic increases during its first five years from 15,875 kg in 1986 to 303,907 kg in 1990 but declined to 243,580 kg in 1991. White potato production was re-introduced as part of the Agricultural Diversification Programme with the main target being to meet half of the annual domestic demand of 544,300 kg by 1990. To support the activity, Government provided incentives including subsidised seed, land for potato production as well as research and developmental support. The initial success of the white potato activity resulted in the private sector becoming involved in seed importation while farmers found potato production highly profitable with a relatively large domestic market. The sustainability of white potato production in St. Kitts is dependent on continued Government support, increased private sector involvement and development of export marketing. There is also need to improve storage facilities, to further develop cultural practices using appropriate technology and to ensure that increased production has no negative impact on the environment.