Crop Over: Major Boost for the Economy

Crop Over 2012 pumped approximately $80 million into Barbados’ economy in the summer months based on visitor arrivals and revenue generation.

Prime Minister, the Hon. Freundel Stuart in his address at the Crop Over Breakfast Show on Monday, November 26, 2012 at the Hilton Barbados made this disclosure to stakeholders and sponsors.

In addition, Crop Over, which is dubbed “the sweetest summer festival” had expanded employment opportunities for many Barbadians, noted the Hon. Prime Minister.

“We are told the businesses like boutiques and the hair and nail salons are always happy to know that Crop-Over is coming around because the ladies and I dare say some gents too, make sure that they prepare for the various events. That is economic activity created with the small business persons during this time which redounds to the overall economic activity across Barbados and benefits the country as a whole. That is why we need the partnership of you the sponsors in this Crop-Over activity to make it work for all Barbadians,” the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister also stated the mandate of the National Cultural Foundation as the producers of Crop Over was to promote the growth of benefits to more Barbadians.

“With the expansion of the festival, the costs associated with this production have also increased. We must, however, spare no effort to ensure that the benefits and the rewards of the festival increase at a higher rate than the cost.”

The Hon. Prime Minister encouraged all to continue to patronize “the sweetest summer festival” as it provides tremendous benefits for those involved.