Two new abattoirs are to be built in Antigua and Barbuda as part of efforts to revitalise the country’s agricultural sector.

Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith said the government had made a down payment to acquire the facilities, which are expected to arrive within six months.

The move forms part of a broader push to reduce the nation’s dependence on imported meat and strengthen local livestock production.

“We spent about $170 million on livestock imports last year alone,” Mr Smith said during an interview on state media.

“There’s a clear need for greater investment in the sector, but farmers also need the infrastructure to process their meat.”

The new abattoirs will complement the country’s existing facility and are expected to speed up meat processing for local farmers.

Mr Smith said the abattoirs would be ready-made units shipped to the island, allowing for quicker installation and operation.