DEXIA’s Multi-Purpose Packhouses

The Dominica Export Import Agency (DEXIA) manages two Multi-Purpose Packhouses in Dominica, strategically located in Goodwill and Glanvillia, Portsmouth. These facilities play a pivotal role in the island’s agricultural export sector by streamlining post-harvest processes and ensuring fresh produce meets international quality standards, enhancing Dominica’s competitiveness in regional and global markets.

Strategic Locations and Infrastructure

The Goodwill Packhouse is situated near the capital city, Roseau, providing easy access for farmers and exporters in the southern and central regions. The Glanvillia Packhouse in Portsmouth serves the northern part of the island. Both facilities are equipped with modern infrastructure, including:

• Sorting and Grading Areas: Produce is carefully inspected and categorized based on size, weight, and quality.
• Washing and Sanitization Units: Ensuring hygiene and compliance with food safety standards.
• Cold Storage Facilities: Maintaining the freshness of perishable goods before export.
• Packing and Labeling Stations: Facilitating efficient packaging for domestic and international markets.

Key Functions and Services of DEXIA’s Multi-Purpose Packhouses

DEXIA’s Multi-Purpose Packhouses provide a range of services designed to support Dominica’s agricultural value chain:

• Post-Harvest Handling: Reducing spoilage and extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.
• Quality Control: Implementing rigorous checks to meet export regulations and consumer expectations.
• Export Facilitation: Assisting with documentation, logistics, and compliance with international trade standards.
• Farmer Support Programs: Offering training on best practices for harvesting, packaging, and handling produce.

Economic and Agricultural Impact

The Multi-Purpose Packhouses significantly contribute to Dominica’s agricultural sector and broader economy:

• Boosting Exports: Enhancing the quality and marketability of Dominican produce in international markets.
• Reducing Post-Harvest Losses: Improving efficiency from farm to market, thus increasing farmers’ incomes.
• Employment Generation: Creating jobs in logistics, quality control, and facility management.
• Supporting Agro-Processing: Facilitating the supply of high-quality raw materials for value-added agricultural products.

Sustainability and Food Safety Initiatives

DEXIA emphasizes sustainability and food safety through initiatives such as:

• Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions: Promoting environmentally sustainable practices.
• Training Programs on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP): Ensuring farmers adhere to safe and sustainable farming techniques.
• Partnerships with Regional Agencies: Collaborating with organizations like the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) to improve agricultural practices.

Driving Agricultural Excellence in Dominica

DEXIA’s Multi-Purpose Packhouses strengthen Dominica’s agricultural export infrastructure by improving post-harvest processes, ensuring international standard compliance, and nurturing local farmers, thereby boosting the global market stance.