The release of the 2023 Census of Agriculture data for American Samoa and Guam by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) offers a detailed snapshot of the agricultural landscape in these U.S. territories, providing valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and stakeholders in the agriculture sector.
The data reveals a growing agricultural sector in both American Samoa and Guam, with significant increases in the number of farms and total value of sales since the last census in 2018. American Samoa saw a 13% increase in the number of farms, totaling 7,157, while Guam experienced a substantial 69% increase, with 583 farms now operating. This growth indicates a burgeoning interest in agriculture and a potential for increased investment in the sector.
The increase in the total value of sales is particularly noteworthy. American Samoa’s agricultural sales reached $35.3 million, with taro being the dominant crop. Guam’s agricultural sales were even more impressive, totaling $6.162 million, with vegetables and melons leading the production categories. These figures suggest a robust market for agricultural products and opportunities for investors to support and expand these industries.
The data also highlights the unique characteristics of farming in these territories. In American Samoa, the average farm size is just 1.3 acres, reflecting a landscape dominated by small-scale, often subsistence farming. In contrast, Guam’s average farm size is 4.9 acres, indicating a slightly more consolidated agricultural structure. These differences present varied opportunities for investment, from supporting smallholder farmers in American Samoa to promoting larger-scale agricultural operations in Guam.
The Census of Agriculture data is instrumental in shaping policies and allocating resources. Federal and local governments, agribusinesses, and organizations can use this information to develop programs that improve farming techniques and equipment, build infrastructure, and enhance production and distribution systems. For instance, the data can guide investments in high-speed internet infrastructure, which is crucial for modernizing agricultural practices and improving market access.
Moreover, the data can inform natural disaster preparation, response, and recovery efforts. Both American Samoa and Guam are vulnerable to natural disasters, and robust agricultural data can help in planning and implementing resilience strategies. This is particularly important for investors looking to support sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.
For investors, the census data provides a wealth of information to identify growth opportunities. The significant increase in the number of farms and sales value indicates a dynamic and expanding market. Investors can explore opportunities in crop production, agricultural technology, infrastructure development, and value-added processing. Additionally, the data can help investors understand the unique challenges and opportunities in each territory, enabling them to tailor their investment strategies accordingly.
In summary, the 2023 Census of Agriculture data for American Samoa and Guam offers a comprehensive view of the agricultural sector in these territories. It highlights growth trends, market opportunities, and the unique characteristics of farming in each location. For policymakers and investors, this data is invaluable in shaping policies, allocating resources, and identifying investment opportunities that can drive the growth and sustainability of agriculture in American Samoa and Guam.
