Seizing the 'Organic' Moment: Cuba's Agricultural Crossroads and Certified Organic Export Potential

Abstract

Cuba may soon be at an “agricultural crossroads.” It will need to decide whether, and to what extent, it wishes to maintain its present organic agricultural identity. That decision will involve balancing two key interests. On one hand, Cuba would like to remain a world leader in, and continue to benefit from environmentally friendly agricultural practices. On the other hand, Cuba would like to better satisfy the nutritional needs of its people without having to rely in large part on food supplies from other nations. There are surely compelling arguments on both sides, including whether these are mutually exclusive. This Article, however, is premised upon the notion that Cuba should, at least to a significant extent, maintain its organic farming practices.

Keywords: Cuba, agriculture, organic, sustainable, farming