Minister of International Trade Emphasizes Importance of Good Quality and Public Health in St. Kitts and Nevis

Right Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas Outlines Plans for St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards

Minister of International Trade, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, emphasized the importance of good quality and public health in St. Kitts and Nevis, as the Federation transitions to a sustainable island state.

Accreditation and Enhanced Testing Capabilities

According to the Minister, the St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards (SKNBS) is committed to raising national standards to ensure product quality, consumer safety, and global competitiveness. This will be achieved through international accreditation and enhanced testing capabilities.

Food and Water Safety

Dr. Douglas stated that the Bureau will make sure to achieve accreditation for chemistry and microbiology testing, enhancing the monitoring of food and water safety. This will ensure that the country’s food and water meet international standards.

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) Certification for Seafood Processing

The Minister announced that the SKNBS will pursue the HACCP certification for seafood processing in collaboration with the Department of Marine Resources. This certification will ensure that local fisheries meet the necessary global safety benchmarks.

Environmental Health Monitoring

Dr. Douglas highlighted the importance of monitoring environmental health and announced plans to expand air quality testing and other environmental monitoring initiatives, contributing to public health and environmental sustainability.

Expansion of Services to Nevis

The Minister announced plans to expand the services of the St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards to the island of Nevis. A branch of the laboratory will be established on Nevis in 2025, meeting the same standards, quality assurance, and consumer protection as the main branch on St. Kitts.

Conclusion

The St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards is committed to ensuring the quality and safety of products, as well as the health and well-being of the public. The planned expansions and enhancements will contribute to the country’s transition to a sustainable island state.

FAQs

What is the role of the St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards?

The St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards is responsible for ensuring the quality and safety of products, as well as the health and well-being of the public.

What is the HACCP certification for seafood processing?

The HACCP certification is a system that provides a framework for monitoring the total food system, from harvesting to consumption, to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

What is the purpose of expanding services to Nevis?

The purpose of expanding services to Nevis is to provide the same standards, quality assurance, and consumer protection as the main branch on St. Kitts, ensuring that the country’s standards are consistent across both islands.