St Kitts-Nevis Opens Largest Greenhouse in the Caribbean

At 24 meters tall and more than 14,000 sq. ft., St Kitts and Nevis has opened the largest greenhouse in the Caribbean region in a project described as “a dream come true.”

That was expressed by Taiwan’s resident ambassador, Miguel Li-Jey Tsao, at a ceremony marking the official opening of the St Kitts Eco-Park (SKEP) on Friday.

“Today, it is the season to reap what we have sown and it is time to elevate the bilateral cooperation between the Republic of China (Taiwan) and its best ally, the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis to a new height,” he told scores of invited guests, including the governor general, the prime minister, other ministers of government, and numerous public and private sector officials, as well as school students.

The Eco-Park is a cooperation project between Taiwan and the twin-island state. It incorporates the successful integration of tourism, agriculture and renewable energy. It boasts what is termed a “4G” concept by being a greenhouse in a glass cabin that uses green energy, and showcases green beauty.” Inside, numerous species of plants grow including local medicinal herbs, roses, butterfly orchids and more. A wide array of tropical fruit trees are spread out around the 20-acre compound. Several other buildings are also on site, including a business center.

Minister of Agriculture Nigel Carty reflected on the groundbreaking for the SKEP in 2012 and marveled at the transformation that has taken place.

“The Eco-Park signals the way forward for ecotourism and rural development,” he stated. “We are changing the rural landscape of St Kitts and Nevis. This is indeed real progress and real change for the people of St Kitts and Nevis.

“Together the government of St Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of China should celebrate this great day. We have indeed made important strides towards ensuring that the people of St Kitts and Nevis in general have this grand opportunity to experience ecotourism, green technology and the development of a unique agro-tourism product, thanks to the work of the ROC and our government and the unfailing commitment to our people.”

The prime minister thanked Taiwan for its contribution and commitment to seeing the project come to fruition. He mentioned that the “facility is yet another compelling example of the real and meaningful progress” brought about by government policies and highlighted that international interest is already being shown by persons to visit the SKEP.

This project “will live in our hearts forever,” Douglas declared.

The opening of the SKEP also signaled the opening of the St Kitts-Nevis and Taiwan Trade Show 2014. A number of products are on display from companies from both countries.