Saint Lucia’s tourism sector accomplished record performance in 2015, while increases in the manufacturing sector are encouraging.

Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, has cited improvements in the tourism and manufacturing sectors as the cause for growth in the island’s economy.

According to Dr. Anthony, Saint Lucia’s tourism sector accomplished record performance in 2015.

"A 6.4 percent increase in total arrivals over the January to November period, and an increase of 10.1 and 2.6 percent in cruise and stay over arrivals respectively, over the period, contributed to higher visitor expenditures, which stood at an estimated $414.5 million in the first half of the year."

In his recent New Year address, the Prime Minister also noted improvements in the manufacturing sector but  mixed performance in the agricultural sector.

“Higher levels of domestic and export demand were reflected in a 6.3 percent increase in manufacturing production. The output of food and food products increased by 21.6 percent, corrugated paper and paper board by 12.5 percent, wood and wood products by 11.6 percent and furnishings by 16.1 percent. From all vantage points, these increases are welcome and encouraging.

"The agricultural sector experienced mixed fortunes during the review period. While there were declines in banana exports and livestock production overall, increases were recorded in pork production and vegetable production. Purchases by supermarkets and hotels increased by an estimated 12 percent to 6,648 tons, reflecting in some measure, the success of the CFL farmer certification program coupled with increased demand from the tourism sector."

According to Dr. Anthony, 2015 also saw a 13.5 percent increase in the importation of construction materials from January to September, reflecting a boost in private-sector-led construction activity.

The Prime Minister delivered his New Year address on Jan. 25.