A Citrus Certification Facility in Londonderry will expand market opportunities for farmers and reestablish Dominica as a leading citrus producer in the region, according to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, Hon. Roland Royer.
The Government of Dominica on Friday, January 10, 2025 awarded a contract valued at EC$7,795,517.88 to ACE Engineering Ltd for the construction of the facility aimed at boosting citrus production on the island.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, Hon. Roland Royer
“This new Citrus Certification Facility will not only restore our certification capabilities but also enhance them, aligning with international standards and strengthening the resilience of the citrus industry. By doing so, we are laying the foundation for increased production, improved quality, and expanded market access for our farmers as seedlings will be more readily available. This facility will play a pivotal role in repositioning Dominica as one of the leading citrus producers in the region,” the Minister said.
The project forms part of the Ministry’s “5Cs” programme (Cocoa, Coffee, Coconuts, Citrus, Cannabis) and aligns with the government’s overarching goal of boosting agriculture’s contribution to the national GDP to EC$700 million by 2030.
“By ensuring the availability of certified, high-quality citrus planting material, we are creating an environment that encourages investment and innovation in the sector. This facility will also contribute to building resilience in the face of climate change and other external shocks, ensuring the sustainability of citrus farming for generations to come,” Minister Royer declared.
The scope of works for the citrus certification facility includes construction of a potting house with a lab and office space; construction and installation of a cold and warm room; supply and installation of greenhouses for propagation and germplasm; and installation of necessary lighting, plumbing, heating ventilation and air conditioning amenities and fixtures.
Once completed, the facility will have the capacity to produce and accommodate up to 50,000 citrus seedlings, significantly contributing to the revitalization of Dominica’s citrus industry.
