Saint Kitts and Nevis Major Exports

Saint Kitts and Nevis, the smallest sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere by land area, has a relatively small but growing export sector. The country’s economy is largely driven by services, particularly tourism and finance, but it also has a notable export profile. Agriculture, manufacturing, and some high-end products contribute to its trade balance. In 2023, Saint Kitts and Nevis’ total export value was estimated at approximately $120 million. The key exports include agricultural products, industrial goods, and rum. Below is an overview of Saint Kitts and Nevis’ major export sectors, along with their respective trade values.

1. Agriculture and Agricultural Products

Overview of Agricultural Exports

Agriculture remains an essential part of Saint Kitts and Nevis’ economy, though it has become less dominant in recent years due to shifts toward services like tourism. However, the country still produces significant quantities of sugar, fresh fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. Sugar, in particular, has been a historical cornerstone of the economy, with sugar cane farming remaining a vital agricultural activity on Saint Kitts.

  • Agricultural Export Value: Agricultural exports contribute around $30 million annually to the country’s total export revenue.
  • Key Products: Sugar, fresh fruits (especially bananas), vegetables, and root crops.

Key Markets for Agricultural Exports

  • United Kingdom: The UK remains one of the largest markets for Saint Kitts and Nevis’ agricultural exports, particularly for sugar and bananas.
  • United States: The U.S. imports a variety of agricultural products from Saint Kitts and Nevis, including fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Caribbean and Regional Markets: Neighboring Caribbean nations are key markets for fresh produce, such as vegetables and fruits, particularly during the tourist season.

2. Rum and Alcoholic Beverages

Overview of Rum Exports

Saint Kitts and Nevis is known for producing high-quality rum, which has become one of its flagship exports. The island of Saint Kitts is home to several distilleries that produce rum, which is internationally recognized for its distinct taste and quality. Rum has a long history in the region, dating back to the colonial era, and remains one of the most important export products.

  • Rum Export Value: Rum and other alcoholic beverages contribute approximately $25 million annually to the nation’s total exports.
  • Key Products: Rum, other spirits, and liquors.

Key Markets for Rum Exports

  • United States: The U.S. is a major market for Saint Kitts and Nevis’ rum, particularly in the Caribbean rum category, where it enjoys steady demand.
  • United Kingdom: The UK is another significant importer of rum, especially for premium and craft varieties.
  • Canada: Canada has a growing demand for Caribbean rum, making it an important export destination for Saint Kitts and Nevis.

3. Pharmaceuticals and Medical Products

Overview of Pharmaceuticals Exports

Although Saint Kitts and Nevis does not have a major pharmaceutical industry, it does export some medical and healthcare products, including medical supplies and pharmaceuticals. The country is part of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which facilitates regional trade and the export of medical products to neighboring countries and global markets.

  • Pharmaceutical Export Value: Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies contribute around $10 million annually to exports.
  • Key Products: Pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and supplies.

Key Markets for Pharmaceutical Exports

  • Caribbean Markets: Neighboring Caribbean countries, particularly within the CARICOM region, are the primary destinations for medical supplies.
  • United States: The U.S. is a key market for specialized medical products and pharmaceuticals produced in the region.

4. Manufacturing and Industrial Goods

Overview of Manufacturing Exports

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a small manufacturing sector, but it is growing, especially in areas such as food processing, beverages, and light industry. The country produces a variety of processed foods and consumer goods that are exported to regional and international markets. The manufacturing sector has been receiving support through government initiatives aimed at increasing productivity and diversifying the economy.

  • Manufacturing Export Value: Manufacturing and industrial goods contribute approximately $15 million annually to the export economy.
  • Key Products: Processed foods, consumer goods, and construction materials.

Key Markets for Manufacturing Exports

  • Caribbean and Regional Markets: The regional Caribbean market is a key destination for Saint Kitts and Nevis’ manufactured goods, particularly food products.
  • United States: The U.S. imports processed foods and consumer goods from the country, which are largely marketed to Caribbean diaspora communities.

5. Electronics and Electrical Equipment

Overview of Electronics Exports

While Saint Kitts and Nevis does not have a large electronics manufacturing sector, it does export some electronic products and components. These exports primarily include electrical machinery and equipment, most of which are produced in regional export hubs and redistributed through Saint Kitts and Nevis’ free trade zones.

  • Electronics Export Value: Exports of electronics and electrical equipment contribute approximately $5 million to the country’s total exports.
  • Key Products: Electrical machinery, computers, and electronic components.

Key Markets for Electronics Exports

  • United States: The U.S. is a key market for Saint Kitts and Nevis’ electronic exports, particularly for components and computer-related products.
  • Caribbean Markets: Neighboring countries in the Caribbean import electrical equipment and electronic products, which are vital for regional development and infrastructure projects.

6. Textiles and Clothing

Overview of Textile and Clothing Exports

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a limited textile and garment manufacturing industry. The export of textiles and clothing is mostly concentrated in small-scale operations. However, the country does produce and export a variety of locally made clothing and textiles, often for niche markets in the tourism and fashion industries.

  • Textiles and Clothing Export Value: Exports of textiles and clothing contribute around $4 million annually to total exports.
  • Key Products: Locally made clothing, textiles, and fashion accessories.

Key Markets for Textiles and Clothing Exports

  • United States: The U.S. imports a portion of Saint Kitts and Nevis’ clothing and textile products, especially those targeted at Caribbean and tropical markets.
  • Caribbean and Regional Markets: Other Caribbean nations are key markets for locally made clothing, especially items designed for tourism and leisure activities.

7. Fish and Seafood Products

Overview of Fish and Seafood Exports

Fishing is an important industry in Saint Kitts and Nevis, providing both for domestic consumption and export. Fish and seafood products, particularly lobster, tuna, and conch, are among the country’s notable exports. The fishing industry benefits from Saint Kitts and Nevis’ location in the Caribbean, with access to rich marine resources.

  • Fish and Seafood Export Value: Fish and seafood contribute around $7 million annually to the country’s export earnings.
  • Key Products: Lobster, tuna, conch, and other seafood.

Key Markets for Fish and Seafood Exports

  • United States: The U.S. is a major importer of seafood from Saint Kitts and Nevis, particularly lobster and tuna.
  • European Union: The EU, particularly countries like France and the Netherlands, imports seafood products from the country for its high-end restaurant markets.

8. Chemicals and Petrochemicals

Overview of Chemical Exports

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a small but growing chemical industry. Most of the country’s chemical exports are related to the agricultural sector, including fertilizers and pesticides. These products are primarily intended for export to other Caribbean nations, where agriculture remains a significant industry.

  • Chemical Export Value: Chemicals contribute around $3 million annually to the country’s export economy.
  • Key Products: Fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural chemicals.

Key Markets for Chemical Exports

  • Caribbean Markets: Neighboring Caribbean countries are the primary importers of chemicals from Saint Kitts and Nevis, particularly fertilizers and agricultural inputs.
  • United States: The U.S. imports some specialty chemicals and agricultural products from the country.

Top Products Exported by St. Kitts

Market Value: 183 (millions) – Last Updated: June, 2024

Top Products Exported by St. Kitts

Rank Product Trade Value (thousands) Share (%) Growth (% 5yr)
1 Television, Radio & Assessory Parts 18,892 10.34 29.72
2 Switches, Relays & Fuses < 1000 Volts 15,080 8.25 -30.55
3 Parts of Electric Motors 8,547 4.68 71.45
4 Transformers, Converters & Power Supplies 5,478 3.00 259.96
5 Parts For Electric Equipment 4,683 2.56 379.10
6 Electrical Resistors 1,887 1.03 451.12
7 Electrical Switching Boards 997 0.55 -42.09
8 Oscilloscopes & Electrical Measuring Instruments 747 0.41 735.77
9 Beer 518 0.28 0.00
10 Electric Motors & Generators 428 0.23 1,057.57
11 Brooms & Mops 390 0.21 45.35
12 Soft Drinks 243 0.13 -17.90
13 Parts For Machine Tools 217 0.12 0.00
14 Computers, Printers & Storage Units 196 0.11 -32.89
15 Specialized Electrical Machinery & Parts 195 0.11 -65.15
16 Coffee 161 0.09 -12.08
17 Alcoholic Beverages 145 0.08 852.95
18 Engine Parts 138 0.08 1,070.47
19 Vessels For Transport 121 0.07 0.00
20 Electronic Integrated Circuits 117 0.06 -50.41
21 Engines & Motors 92 0.05 -32.79
22 Insulated Wire & Cable 75 0.04 689.81
23 Misc Animal Products 72 0.04 0.00
24 Copper Waste & Scrap 71 0.04 -84.01
25 Printed Circuits 70 0.04 -33.93
26 Cut Flowers & Buds 69 0.04 0.00
27 Filters & Centrifuges 68 0.04 469.48
28 Nuts 63 0.03 0.00
29 Photocopy Apparatus 56 0.03 0.00
30 Motor Vehicle Parts 54 0.03 -37.02
31 Telephone, Fax & Switching Apparatus 52 0.03 5,443.43
32 Passenger Vehicles 42 0.02 -36.34
33 Mechanical Machinery & Parts 38 0.02 -51.61
34 Live Plants 37 0.02 105.46
35 Trucks 33 0.02 506.28
36 Computer & Office Machines Parts 31 0.02 94.84
37 Plastic Containers 31 0.02 185.71
38 Heavy Construction Equipment 25 0.01 0.00
39 Ferroalloys 25 0.01 0.00
40 Pumps For Liquids 25 0.01 0.00
41 Aluminum Waste & Scrap 25 0.01 0.00
42 Vans & Buses 24 0.01 0.00
43 Taps, Cocks & Valves 21 0.01 731.40
44 Knitted Womens & Girls Slips 19 0.01 0.00
45 Tarps, Sails & Tents 17 0.01 24.31
46 Switching Equipment, > 1000 V 17 0.01 -91.08
47 Central Heat Boilers 17 0.01 0.00
48 Cane Sugar 17 0.01 -99.84
49 Non-Knit Track Suits 16 0.01 -98.76
50 Household Articles 16 0.01 0.00
51 Tea 15 0.01 -91.52
52 Shawls & Scarves 14 0.01 0.00
53 Demonstrational Instruments & Parts 14 0.01 0.00
54 Carboxylic Acid 14 0.01 -84.66
55 Automatic Regulating & Control Instruments 13 0.01 -73.16
56 Binders For Found Molds 13 0.01 2,235.73
57 Non-Knit Mens & Boys Suits 13 0.01 -71.44
58 Knitted Sweaters 13 0.01 -32.57
59 Articles of Plastics 13 0.01 30.29
60 Books 12 0.01 168.35
61 Electric Light Equipment 10 0.01 0.00
62 Pepper 10 0.01 0.00
63 Interchange Hand & Machine Tools 10 0.01 0.00
64 Electric Signal & Safety Equipment 9 0.00 0.00
65 Precious & Semiprecious Stones 8 0.00 0.00
66 Articles of Cutlery 8 0.00 0.00
67 Plants For Pharmacy 8 0.00 -76.34
68 Water Heaters 7 0.00 0.00
69 Artificial Flowers 7 0.00 0.00
70 Imitation Jewelry 7 0.00 -91.68
71 Articles of Aluminum 6 0.00 0.00
72 Hand Tools 6 0.00 0.00
73 Handbags, Wallets & Travel Goods 6 0.00 -78.08
74 Cycle Parts & Assessories 6 0.00 0.00
75 Shell Fish 6 0.00 0.00
76 Plastic Sheets, Film & Plates 5 0.00 0.00
77 Bed & Table Linen 5 0.00 -31.42
78 Survey Instruments 5 0.00 0.00
79 Revolution & Production Count Meters 5 0.00 0.00
80 Electromech Domestic Appliances 5 0.00 0.00
81 Locust Beans 5 0.00 0.00
82 Molluscs 4 0.00 0.00
83 Leather Apparel & Accessories 4 0.00 -56.84
84 Composite Diagnostic & Lab Reagents 4 0.00 0.00
85 Aircraft Parts 4 0.00 -80.61
86 Liquid Crystal Devices 4 0.00 -99.89
87 Electric Capacitors 3 0.00 42.79
88 Art Paper 3 0.00 0.00
89 Articles of Vulcanized Rubber 3 0.00 0.00
90 Made-Up Articles of Textile Materials 3 0.00 -29.40
91 Ceramic Tableware & Earthenware 3 0.00 0.00
92 Piston Engines 3 0.00 0.00
93 Transmission Shafts, Bearings & Parts 3 0.00 332.34
94 Unsaturated Acyclic & Cyclic Monocarbox Acid 3 0.00 -78.30
95 Aluminum Structures & Parts of 3 0.00 -83.73
96 Machinery Parts 3 0.00 0.00
97 Non-Knit Womens & Girls Slips 3 0.00 89.99
98 Microphones 2 0.00 0.00
99 Beauty & Make-up Perparations 2 0.00 -86.62
100 Dextrins 2 0.00 0.00
101 Glass Mirrors 2 0.00 3.61
102 Hardware For Furniture, Doors & Windows 2 0.00 0.00
103 Sauces & Condiments 2 0.00 70.71
104 Wood Marquetry 2 0.00 0.00
105 Food Preparations 2 0.00 0.00
106 Nucleic Acids & Salts 2 0.00 0.00
107 Leather Footwear 1 0.00 0.00
108 Electric Parts & Accessories 1 0.00 0.00
109 Buttons 1 0.00 0.00
110 Air Conditioners 1 0.00 -50.25
111 Articles of Stone 1 0.00 0.00
112 Hydrometers & Thermometers 1 0.00 0.00
113 Transister & Semiconductor Devices 1 0.00 -96.55
114 Electric Lasers 1 0.00 0.00
115 Pictures & Photos 1 0.00 -70.24
116 Non-Knit Mens & Boys Shirts 1 0.00 -90.63
117 Air & Vacuum Pumps 1 0.00 -87.35
118 Worn Clothing 1 0.00 -20.02
119 Hand Paintings & Drawings 1 0.00 -94.00
120 Electric Filament & Discharge Lamps 1 0.00 15.85
121 Articles of Wood 1 0.00 0.00
122 Woven Pile & Chenille Fabrics 1 0.00 0.00
123 Plastic Self-Adhesive Plates 1 0.00 0.00
124 Cel Phones, Video Recorders & Radio Transcievers 1 0.00 -80.27
125 Fresh Fruit 1 0.00 0.00
126 Furnishing Articles of Textile Materials 1 0.00 0.00
127 Knitted Mens & Boys Suits 1 0.00 -71.19
128 Furniture & Parts 1 0.00 -92.90
129 Molasses 0 0.00 -99.93
130 Gaskets & Similar Joints of Metal Sheeting 0 0.00 0.00
131 Non-Knit Womens & Girls Suits 0 0.00 -99.70
132 Knitted Track Suits 0 0.00 -99.90
133 Electric Water Heaters 0 0.00 0.00
134 Non Sweetened Waters 0 0.00 -75.70
135 Non-Knit Mens & Boys Undershirts 0 0.00 -65.95
136 Essent Oils Resinoid 0 0.00 0.00
137 Knitted Womens & Girls Blouses & Shirts 0 0.00 0.00
138 Ferrous Waste & Scrap 0 0.00 0.00
139 Lamps & Lighting Fittings 0 0.00 -84.55
140 Fishing Rods & Tackle 0 0.00 0.00
141 Tools For Working in the Hand 0 0.00 0.00
142 Parts For Fork Lifts, Bulldozers & Graders 0 0.00 0.00
143 Motorcycles 0 0.00 -82.64
144 Articles of Iron & Steel 0 0.00 -98.01
145 Foods Prepared By Cereal Grain 0 0.00 -99.52
146 Melons & Papayas 0 0.00 0.00
147 Auxiliary Plant Used With Boilers 0 0.00 0.00
148 Screws, Bolts & Nuts 0 0.00 0.00
149 Knitted Garments 0 0.00 -98.56
150 Wine 0 0.00 0.00
151 Knitted T-Shirts 0 0.00 -98.04
152 TV Receivers 0 0.00 0.00
153 Reception Apparatus For Radiotelephony 0 0.00 0.00
154 Builders Ware of Plastics 0 0.00 0.00
155 Chain & Parts 0 0.00 0.00
156 Ball & Roller Bearings & Parts 0 0.00 0.00
157 Dishwashing & Packaging Machines 0 0.00 0.00
158 Puzzles, Models & Toys 0 0.00 -93.88
159 Primary Cells & Batteries 0 0.00 -97.96
160 Paper Labels 0 0.00 0.00
161 Knitted Made-Up Clothing Accessories 0 0.00 0.00
162 Prepared Glues & Adhesives 0 0.00 -99.85
163 Refrigerators & Freezers 0 0.00 0.00