The Barbados Sugar Industries Limited (BSIL) is actively seeking a new investor following the breakdown of the government’s divestment agreement with the Barbados Sustainable Energy Co-operative Society Limited (Co-op Energy). BSIL Chairman Mark Sealy expressed concerns over the financial challenges faced by farmers, who have already invested heavily in equipment, land, and sugarcane cultivation. Sealy emphasized that the farmers lack the substantial capital required to upgrade the sole remaining sugar factory and manage government-run agricultural land. He dismissed rumors of farmers having significant financial resources, stating that their cash flow is severely depleted. The government recently terminated a March 2023 memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Co-op Energy, which aimed to transfer the Barbados Agricultural Management Company’s (BAMC) sugar portfolio into two co-operative-run entities. Despite the setback, Sealy highlighted the critical role of the sugar industry in Barbados’ economy, tourism, and food security, particularly in producing molasses for high-end rums and maintaining the island’s aesthetics. He assured that the industry has continued to operate smoothly without Co-op Energy’s involvement and stressed that Barbados cannot afford to abandon the sugar industry, as it would lead to significant environmental and economic consequences.