BASSETERRE: Sugar Mas 54 has delivered unprecedented economic returns for St. Kitts & Nevis, generating EC$29.5 million in economic activity — a remarkable 35.9% increase over the previous season’s EC$21.7 million, Minister Hon. Samal Duggins announced at the official Prize Giving Ceremony.
“Record Investment. Record Delivery,” declared Minister Duggins, who oversees the national festival. The results underscore Carnival’s growing importance as “a powerhouse for culture, tourism, and jobs in St. Kitts & Nevis.”
The economic surge reflects the government’s most ambitious investment strategy to date, with structured funding exceeding $1.3 million across multiple categories. Over $700,000 was allocated to prize money and participation support, while private event promoters received more than $250,000 in direct assistance.
The Band Association secured $250,000, and an additional $150,000 funded free downtown entertainment, supporting more than 160 vendors throughout the festival period.
“That is intentional investment in culture, creativity, and commerce and the results speak for themselves,” Minister Duggins noted, emphasizing the government’s strategic approach to developing the annual celebration.
The Prize Giving Ceremony celebrated the “talented individuals, troupes, bands, and creatives who brought our national festival to life and made it truly Sweet to the Core,” honoring winners who continue to elevate the festival’s standards.
With Sugar Mas 54’s success firmly establishing new benchmarks, Minister Duggins expressed optimism for the future, looking “onward to an even stronger Sugar Mas 55.”
The festival’s economic impact demonstrates how cultural investment translates into tangible financial benefits for businesses, vendors, and the broader economy across St. Kitts & Nevis.