Barbados rum industry thirsts for sugar boost

The world-renowned Barbados rum industry is poised for a dramatic expansion, but there’s a catch – it needs more sugar. Despite producing nearly 5 000 tonnes of sugar this year, the island’s revamped sugar sector must increase production to properly fuel its world-class rum business, Agriculture Minister Indar Weir said.

Speaking at a seminar on supplying Barbadian products to the global cruise industry, Weir praised the impressive harvest following the privatisation of the sugar industry. However, he acknowledged that it fell short of meeting the rum sector’s growing demands.

“Our sugar industry which has been recently privatised has just produced 4 800 tonnes of Barbadian sugar. Our sugar is known for its high quality and there is an opportunity to work with stakeholders in the sugar industry. We’ve just completed 8 000 tonnes of molasses, but of course, that’s not enough because we have a very strong rum industry, “the minister said at the seminar held at Hilton Barbados on Monday.

The island’s sugar industry has undergone significant changes, with two new companies – Barbados Energy and Sugar Company Inc and Agricultural Business Company Ltd – taking over the state-owned Barbados Agricultural Management Inc on January 15.

As the island looks to capitalise on its rum heritage and expand its presence in the global market, the pressure is on for the sugar industry to keep pace. Weir said, despite the need for more locally produced molasses, the level of production and expertise demonstrated frequently by rum producers must be applauded.

“I am extremely happy and very proud of what our rum producers are doing, by producing some of the finest quality rums that you can find anywhere in the world,” he said.

Tourism minister, Ian Gooding-Edghill, echoed the sentiment, emphasising Barbados’ unique position as the birthplace of rum. He argued that this compelling story should ensure Barbadian rums are available on every cruise ship, allowing guests to sample their exceptional blends.

The seminar, dubbed Provisioning Barbadian Products to the Global Cruise Industry, aimed to connect local manufacturers and distributors with cruise line officials, potentially opening new avenues for Barbadian products in the cruise industry.