What influences agricultural innovation in Guadeloupe? How do factors such as the environment, the innovation process, and actors and networks impact the innovation process? What improvements could be made? The French Cross Visit to Guadeloupe provided pearls, puzzles and proposals.

The Pearls – Things that Work

In terms of the environment, the fact that the biodiversity is so extensive is a great plus. A high potential for local and quality products clears the way for good market opportunities. Simultaneously, the availability of subsidies is the foundation of privileged financial conditions.

When looking at the innovation process, the organization RITA plays an important role as a stimulus factor. The fact that there is synergy between scientific and technical institutes is also a contributing factor to a positive environment for innovation. Apart from this, the innovation process in Guadeloupe is generally characterized by an ability to bridge roles and a willingness to keep on going.

It also helps agricultural innovation in Guadeloupe that the network structures are in place and that there is a certain willingness to cooperate. At the same time, contacting outside actors, i.e. across the border, has been comparatively successful.

What is more, the observed innovation processes are generally characterized by a devotion to science, the availability of technical support as well as an adaptation to local conditions.

The Puzzles – Things to Ponder

However, even though many things do work, the Guadeloupean innovation process leaves some points to be considered:

  • Equilibrium of import-export.
  • The level of confidence is somewhat damaged.
  • There are uncertainties/questions as to what the political priorities are.
  • How holistic is the innovation approach?
  • How will the diffusion of innovation take place?
  • How do stakeholders reflect on the impact of innovation?
  • How do the platforms work?
  • How does cooperation happen?
  • How may the farmers be more actively involved?
  • What about the capacity to involve other actors (e.g. the market)?
  • There is a lack of coherence between innovations outside/inside Guadeloupe.
  • Why are the farmers not more central?

Proposals For the Innovation Process

  • Think out of the box
  • Release the unexplored potential for crossing border cooperation
  • Broaden the scope and unite the actors
  • Develop a strategy for stronger inclusion of farmers
  • Make trustworthy relations and build confidence
  • Learn the language of the farmers
  • There is a potential for further involvement of advisory services
  • Work towards more holistic agro-eco approach

Read more about the Cross Visit in Guadeloupe.