Government opens egg facility to boost Cayman’s local food production

The Cayman Islands’ first-ever, government-operated egg production facility opened this week with the aim of boosting the islands’ domestic egg production and reducing reliance on imports.

A recent Compass report revealed that the Cayman Islands imports over 90% of its food – more than 80% of it from the US alone – leaving it vulnerable to supply chain shocks and tariffs.

The new facility, opened by the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, is intended to be a step towards strengthening food security and to support the growth of sustainable agriculture across the islands.

This facility is not intended for commercial egg sales, the Department of Agriculture said in a post on its website.

“Instead, it serves as a model demonstration site, showcasing best practices in poultry health, housing, and production — and supporting research, training, and education for Cayman’s poultry farmers. Farmers can tour the facility, access layout designs, and get guidance from the DoA’s Poultry Extension Officer to help improve their own flocks efficiently and affordably.”

The Department of Agriculture’s online post also said the facility will play a key role in the National Egg Strategy Programme, ensuring proper sanitation and safe handling of eggs before they’re donated to groups like Meals on Wheels, Caribbean Haven, and Savannah United Church, among others.

“This initiative supports vulnerable members of our community with a steady supply of locally produced, nutritious eggs, while promoting food security and sustainability across the Islands.”

Agriculture Minister Johany “Jay” Ebanks, who officially opened the facility, said in a press release, “This is more than just an egg facility. This is an investment in our future. It demonstrates government’s commitment to agricultural development, greater local food security, and support for Caymanian farmers.”

There are already plans to increase egg production in the Cayman Islands, as detailed in a recent Compass report on food security. A group of 17 Caymanian farmers is currently participating in the National Egg Strategy or NEST programme, a government initiative led by Minister Ebanks aimed at doubling domestic egg production and capturing 40% of the market. The programme offers training, certification and equipment to raise safety standards, quality and consumer confidence.

Director of Agriculture Wilbur Welcome said, “This facility represents a long-term vision for the DoA. It allows us to model best practices in poultry care, health and productivity while supporting Cayman’s broader food sustainability goals.”

The department will continue working closely with farmers, schools and community partners to make local agriculture more accessible and viable.

For more information on the egg production facility or to explore training and farming opportunities, contact the Department of Agriculture at 947-3090 or visit www.doa.gov.ky.