ABSTRACT
The Caribbean region, with its diverse ecosystems and rich agricultural heritage, is integral to the economies of its member states within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Agriculture is crucial for food security, employment, and economic development; however, it faces substantial challenges, particularly from agricultural pests such as fruit flies. This paper examines the status of fruit fly populations and monitoring systems in the Caribbean, highlighting the coordinated efforts led by CARICOM and its specialized agencies, notably the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA) and the Caribbean Plant Health Directors (CPHD) Forum. Key initiatives, including the “25 by 25” goal aimed at enhancing regional food production, are discussed alongside threats posed by climate change, natural disasters, and tourism-related risks. The establishment of the Fruit Fly Monitoring System (FFMS) and the Open Sharing Platform underscores CARICOM’s commitment to fostering regional collaboration and data transparency in pest management. The paper emphasizes the urgent need for continued investment and innovation to mitigate the impacts of fruit flies and ensure the sustainability and biodiversity of the region’s agriculture. The paper concludes with recommendations for enhancing biosecurity measures, developing biological control methods, and strengthening regional policies to address evolving agricultural challenges.
