The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyze Trinidad and Tobago‘s recent
agricultural policy decisions and their effect on the way small farms and commercial large farms
coexist to contribute to the country's food security. Food security is defined as when all persons can
access sufficient and nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life, and have enough income
to access that food in a safe, socially acceptable way. This research uses qualitative data from
farmers, representatives of agricultural organizations, and consumers/vendors at open air markets in
Tobago, and secondary data from local government offices and international organizations.
Information also comes from the country‘s three main daily newspapers. The research suggests that
the State has been striving to integrate the commercial farms into domestic, regional and
international markets by emphasizing the role of technology and aggressive marketing. The research
also suggests that the State is striving to improve the circumstances of small farmers through
education, training and technology with regard to farming methods based on best practices; higher
output quality standards; inclusion into the commodity value chain process; marketing support; and
increased access to credit and financial incentives. The link between increased output at the
commercial farms and lower domestic food prices has not been fully explored in this research, but
initial reactions from farmers suggest that small farm incomes have been negatively affected.