Economy of Saint Lucia: Discovery

Discovering Saint Lucia: Economy

Economy

Member of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), Saint Lucia's economy is still based on agricultural activities (especially banana; which with fishing represents 5.5 % of GDP), industry (clothing, fabrics, etc.) and tourism; the latter of the three is the preponderant sector but industry a sports a certain degree of diversity. Also note that the island has two fully-equipped ports.

Despite substantial efforts since the 90's, the road ahead still seems difficult. GDP per inhabitant (5,700 $US) places it in the lowest rankings among the Caribbean States and its unemployment rate fluctuates around 17-18 %.
These last few years, development in the tourism sector has had a driving role on employment and internal income (37% of GDP, about 350,000 tourists per year). As in the French West Indies, the banana sector has been affected by the conflict between the United States and the European Union (see Economy of Martinique).

Politics

In 1979, Saint Lucia gained independence from Great Britain. Today, it is based on a stable parliamentary democracy.

• Prime Minister: Hon. Dr Kenny Davis Anthony
• Vice Prime Minister /
  Human Resources, Education, Youth and Sports Minister: Hon. Mario Michel
• Public Affairs, Investment, Tourism and Trade Minister: Hon. Philip J. Pierre
• Housing, Environment, Development and Planning Minister: Hon. Ignatius Jean
• Family & Civil Affairs and Health Minister: Hon. Damian Greaves
• Home Office Minister: Hon. Senator Calixte George