The Dominican Government has approved the establishment of an Agricultural Land Lease Facility aimed at expanding agricultural production and encouraging greater participation by young farmers.

The decision was taken at Cabinet’s meeting on January 14, and forms part of the Government’s 2025–2026 Budget commitment to place at least 300 acres of State-owned land into active agricultural use.

The initiative is intended to promote investment in agriculture, aquaculture, mariculture, agro-processing and forestry, while strengthening food security and rural economic development.

Under the new facility, State lands across several locations will be made available for lease exclusively for agricultural purposes. Identified sites include Newfoundland Estate, Londonderry Estate, Woodfordhill–Mango Gutter, the Wesley–Joe Burton area, Morne Prosper, Charlotte Valley, Savanne York, Williams Settlement, Wotten Waven, Blenheim Estate, Pointe Mulatre Estate–Fond Thomas, Hertford Estate–Warner, and Richmond Estate in Castle Bruce.

Cabinet approved the leasing of parcels ranging from one to five acres at a nominal rate of EC$1 per acre per year for the first five years. Lessees will have the option to renew, provided the land continues to be used for agriculture.

To manage and guide the programme, Cabinet also approved the establishment of a Technical Advisory Committee. The committee will be responsible for overseeing the selection and placement of farmers, advising on enterprise development, recommending training, providing technical support, and assisting with investment planning and access to markets.

In addition, a Pupil Surveyor will be engaged on contract as an Agricultural Land Lease Technician. This role will involve managing applications, conducting surveys, administering leases, monitoring compliance, developing a database of leased lands, and serving as secretary to the Technical Advisory Committee.

Standardised lease terms and conditions have also been adopted. These include exclusive agricultural use of the land, a five-year lease period, restrictions on subletting and habitation, routine compliance monitoring, and automatic termination of leases in cases of breach.

Eligibility for the facility will focus on young and land-constrained farmers.

Applicants will be required to demonstrate active involvement in agriculture or present viable production proposals, be registered farmers, hold a valid Produce Sellers’ Licence, and be compliant with Social Security requirements.

The government says the Agricultural Land Lease Facility is designed to boost domestic food production, create opportunities for young farmers, and support sustainable development in rural communities across Dominica.