Carib Scope

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  • Government unveils strategy to attract high-tech foreign investment

    Government unveils strategy to attract high-tech foreign investment

    The Dominican Republic has launched a comprehensive ten-year strategy designed to transform the nation into a premier destination for high-value digital investments in the Caribbean region. With technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs (MICM) formally introduced the Foreign Direct Investment Attraction Plan for ICT Companies 2026–2036 during a high-level presentation in Santo Domingo.

    This strategic blueprint outlines a detailed roadmap for integrating the Dominican Republic into global technology supply chains, specifically targeting four high-growth sectors: semiconductor manufacturing, specialized software development, Healthtech innovations, and advanced Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) services. Industry and Commerce Minister Yayo Sanz Lovatón emphasized the country’s unique competitive advantages during the unveiling, highlighting its strategic geographical location, robust digital infrastructure, and growing pool of technically skilled professionals as key factors for attracting international technology corporations.

    The initiative represents a coordinated effort among multiple national institutions including ProDominicana, the National Council of Export Free Zones, and the Association of Foreign Investment Companies. Beyond immediate investment attraction, the plan aims to stimulate technological innovation, generate high-quality employment opportunities in STEM fields, and foster sustainable economic diversification. By aligning with international best practices in investment promotion, the Dominican government seeks to establish the country as a central node in the global digital economy landscape for the coming decade.

  • Election petitions not frivolous – Gonsalves says

    Election petitions not frivolous – Gonsalves says

    Opposition Leader Ralph Gonsalves has emphatically rejected Prime Minister Godwin Friday’s characterization of High Court petitions against him and Foreign Minister Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble as “frivolous,” asserting instead that they represent matters of profound constitutional importance. The legal challenges, which question the eligibility of both officials to hold parliamentary seats due to their Canadian citizenship, have sparked a heated exchange between government and opposition figures.

    Gonsalves, speaking during his weekly Star Radio broadcast, countered the Prime Minister’s complaints about judicial time consumption by invoking historical precedent. He referenced the 2015 general elections when Friday’s New Democratic Party (NDP) filed similar petitions and organized protests alleging electoral theft by Gonsalves’ Unity Labour Party (ULP). “They had no case and the case crumbled, but they dragged it on,” Gonsalves remarked, highlighting what he characterized as NDP’s prolonged challenges despite ultimately unsuccessful outcomes.

    The opposition leader further accused NDP of establishing a harassment campaign against then-Supervisor of Elections Sylvia Findlay-Scubb through a group called “Frontline,” alleging daily verbal abuse that damaged the nation’s investment appeal by creating perceptions of political instability. “People do not want to come to a place which reeks of political instability,” Gonsalves stated, directly addressing Friday: “Don’t get amnesia as to what persons like yourself instigated and supported for a period of five years.”

    Despite this historical context, Gonsalves committed to expediting the current proceedings, noting petitioners have instructed legal counsel to move expeditiously through judicial channels. He anticipates determinations at both High Court and Court of Appeal levels in due course.

    Prime Minister Friday presented a markedly different public demeanor following Thursday’s case management hearing, appearing unbothered as he exited the Kingstown High Court. When approached by media, he described the day as “beautiful” and “wonderful” while directing legal inquiries to government lead counsel Anand Ramlogan S.C. from Trinidad and Tobago.

    The petitions, filed by claimants Williams and Browne, contend that Canadian citizenship constitutionally disqualifies both officials from parliamentary service—Friday as Northern Grenadines MP since 2001 and Bramble in his second term representing East Kingstown.

  • ‘Tide Turners – Stewards of the Sea’ initiative launched in SVG

    ‘Tide Turners – Stewards of the Sea’ initiative launched in SVG

    The SVG Sailing Association has inaugurated a groundbreaking environmental program titled ‘Tide Turners – Young Stewards of the Sea,’ mobilizing young sailors to protect the South Coast Marine Managed Area through comprehensive monitoring and conservation efforts.

    The official launch ceremony occurred Friday at Vincy Sail Club in Coconut Grove, uniting youth sailors, community representatives, and environmental partners dedicated to preserving St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ marine ecosystems. Five young sailors delivered compelling testimonies about their personal connections to the ocean and concerning environmental transformations they’ve witnessed during coastal voyages.

    Educational specialist Joshua Gooding and project director Anne Weinhardt outlined the initiative’s ambitious objectives while acknowledging Louise Mitchell’s inspirational role in conceptualizing the project. The program receives financial backing from the SVG Conservation Fund, enabling meaningful youth engagement and school participation.

    Tide Turners equips young sailors with practical conservation tools through environmental education, biodiversity assessment, shoreline purification drives, and community outreach. Participants will systematically document marine wildlife sightings, coastal modifications, and pollution indicators, generating crucial localized environmental data.

    Launch attendees participated in a symbolic pledge-writing ceremony, committing to specific actions supporting marine protection. The initiative immediately transitioned to operational activities, conducting its first educational workshop Saturday for 18 participants covering marine biodiversity, environmental surveillance, and responsible stewardship principles.

    Throughout the coming year, the program will expand to include coordinated monitoring sessions, sailing-based observation missions, and organized beach cleanups. Collected environmental data will be synthesized into a comprehensive community report for distribution to government bodies and conservation organizations.

    The SVG Sailing Association anticipates Tide Turners will cultivate a new generation of environmentally conscious Vincentians committed to safeguarding their island nation’s surrounding waters. This twelve-month youth-led endeavor represents a significant advancement in community-driven marine conservation through education, engagement, and practical environmental stewardship.

  • Sponsor to donate windows, doors for 200 houses rebuilt after Beryl

    Sponsor to donate windows, doors for 200 houses rebuilt after Beryl

    Significant progress is underway in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ post-hurricane housing recovery efforts, with multiple initiatives converging to address displacement caused by Hurricane Beryl’s devastation in July 2024. Housing Minister Andrew John has revealed that an anonymous organization, collaborating with the Red Cross, will donate windows and doors for 200 homes, substantially aiding reconstruction in the hardest-hit Southern Grenadine islands where over 90% of structures suffered damage or destruction.

    The government is simultaneously advancing a strategic housing program featuring prefabricated homes that can be erected within four weeks once foundations are prepared. Minister John confirmed the administration is proceeding with a previously arranged agreement with a Trinidad and Tobago company for prefab housing, noting that while initially skeptical, the time and cost efficiency of prefab construction proved compelling for rapid rehousing.

    Financial mechanisms are being activated to support these efforts, including the fine-tuning of an existing loan arrangement with the Saudi Fund that could provide funding for up to 200 new homes. This external financing would alleviate pressure on the national budget, allowing greater focus on material procurement and logistics.

    The government has already made substantial progress in reducing displacement numbers, cutting the original 700 displaced families by more than half to approximately 300 households through careful assessment and elimination of duplicate or unnecessary placements. Minister John acknowledged that political considerations had previously influenced displacement lists, but the current administration has implemented more rigorous verification processes.

    Logistical improvements include relocating assembly operations to covered facilities at Campden Park to accelerate construction and identifying land parcels in Chester for clustered housing development. The Housing and Land Development Corporation continues to accept registrations for the prefab housing program, which has generated considerable public interest beyond those affected by Hurricane Beryl.

  • Report examines social impact of plastic pollution in Dominican Republic

    Report examines social impact of plastic pollution in Dominican Republic

    Santo Domingo has become the epicenter of a critical environmental justice conversation as the Dominican Republic Plastics Action Platform (NPAP-RD) convened a multidisciplinary workshop to address the social dimensions of plastic pollution. The gathering brought together an unprecedented coalition of government officials, industry representatives, civil society advocates, and international organizations to examine how waste management practices disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

    The workshop featured preliminary findings from the groundbreaking Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) Report, which reveals stark disparities in how plastic pollution impacts women and marginalized communities. Unique perspectives emerged from grassroots recyclers, coastal community leaders, and representatives from informal settlements who highlighted systemic inequalities throughout the recycling value chain. These firsthand accounts provided crucial context for developing nationally appropriate solutions to environmental challenges.

    Research indicates that informality remains pervasive across the recycling sector, creating significant barriers to social services, economic opportunities, and protection mechanisms for women and vulnerable workers. In response, authorities from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs joined industry leaders from the Association of Industries of the Dominican Republic in advocating for gender-responsive policy integration. The collaborative insights will directly inform the country’s Plastics Action Roadmap—a comprehensive 2025 initiative designed to advance circular economy principles and sustainable development goals through inclusive waste management strategies.

  • Iran zet in op uithoudingsvermogen en energieverstoring in strijd tegen VS en Israël

    Iran zet in op uithoudingsvermogen en energieverstoring in strijd tegen VS en Israël

    Iran is executing a calculated strategy of attrition against the United States and Israel, emphasizing economic disruption and psychological pressure over conventional military superiority, according to regional security analysts. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) maintains firm control over battlefield operations despite the loss of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in initial attacks, with experts noting the organization’s consolidation of power through the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as new Supreme Leader.

    The conflict has evolved into an existential struggle for Tehran, which analysts Fawaz Gerges of London School of Economics and Alex Vatanka of Middle East Institute describe as resembling a ‘wounded but increasingly dangerous animal.’ Iran’s military approach focuses on maximizing economic damage throughout the Gulf region, targeting energy infrastructure from Qatar to Saudi Arabia to increase costs for neighboring countries, European partners, and the United States while testing Washington’s political resolve.

    Despite President Donald Trump’s commitment to continue hostilities until Iran’s complete defeat, the confrontation appears to be transforming into a prolonged war of endurance. U.S. intelligence sources indicate significant depletion of Iran’s missile arsenal, though regional assessments suggest Tehran retains more than half of its pre-war stockpile, sufficient to sustain attacks for several weeks.

    Within Iran, daily life demonstrates remarkable resilience with shops and banks remaining operational during bombardements. The population shows no signs of mass protests or elite fragmentation, instead displaying strengthened national solidarity that potentially allows the regime to adapt to a war economy and consolidate control.

    Global markets are already feeling the conflict’s impact, with oil prices reaching record highs not seen since 2022. Brent crude surged due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil exports, while aluminum prices also rose significantly indicating broader commodity market instability.

    Rising energy costs have triggered rationing measures and distribution restrictions worldwide, with multiple countries implementing temporary fuel sales regulations to prevent shortages. This creates increasing pressure on households and industries while heightening political tensions across multiple regions.

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently emphasized the global necessity for peace, stability, and dialogue, describing the Middle East situation as entering a delicate and dangerous phase where military escalation offers no solution. China advocates for immediate ceasefire and political dialogue with respect for national sovereignty and non-interference principles.

    The coming weeks will prove crucial as Iran bets on political exhaustion of its adversaries while the U.S. and Israel prepare to maintain military pressure. Regardless of outcome, the conflict has created an injured and unpredictable actor capable of further disrupting regional and global balance.

  • Greene Holds Bilateral Talks with Canadian Official at Commonwealth Ministers Meeting in London

    Greene Holds Bilateral Talks with Canadian Official at Commonwealth Ministers Meeting in London

    In a significant diplomatic engagement on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting in London, Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Minister E.P. Chet Greene convened substantive talks with Canadian Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs Robert Oliphant. The bilateral discussion, facilitated by the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission in the United Kingdom, centered on revitalizing the Commonwealth’s contemporary role and strategic positioning ahead of the forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

    The high-level dialogue addressed critical issues affecting Small Island Developing States (SIDS), with particular emphasis on building systemic resilience against environmental and economic vulnerabilities. Both nations explored mechanisms to bolster the rule of law as a cornerstone of democratic institutions and governance frameworks. The conversation further extended to collaborative strategies for mitigating global de-risking phenomena—where financial institutions reduce exposure to certain jurisdictions—and navigating complex geopolitical shifts.

    Minister Greene and Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant unanimously emphasized the indispensable value of multilateral cooperation, pledging to enhance their collaborative efforts within the Commonwealth architecture. This meeting underscores the ongoing commitment between Caribbean nations and traditional Commonwealth partners to address shared challenges through coordinated diplomatic channels.

  • Omar Fernández reintroduces bill to eliminate tax advance for MSMEs

    Omar Fernández reintroduces bill to eliminate tax advance for MSMEs

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant legislative move aimed at bolstering small business viability, National District Senator Omar Fernández has once again tabled a proposal to exempt micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) from mandatory advance income tax payments. This marks the fourth occasion the senator has introduced this initiative, underscoring a persistent effort to reform fiscal policy for Dominican Republic’s smaller economic players.

    The contentious advance payment mechanism requires businesses to prepay income tax based on projected future profits. Senator Fernández contends this system creates an undue financial strain by compelling companies to pay taxes on revenue they have not yet realized, thereby severely constricting their operational liquidity and growth potential. He emphasized that with over 85% of nationally registered enterprises falling into the micro or small category, establishing a more supportive tax framework is critical for national economic development.

    Fernández further argued that the proposed elimination would have a negligible adverse effect on overall government tax revenues, while simultaneously acting as a catalyst for enhanced economic dynamism and entrepreneurship. The senator’s legislative agenda extends beyond this single measure, incorporating additional proposals to abolish property tax double taxation for seniors over 65, eradicate mortgage-related taxes, remove advance tax obligations for the agricultural industry, streamline tax compliance procedures, and initiate comprehensive modernization of the nation’s commercial and judicial frameworks.

  • Young Women Debate Cannabis Policy in Mock Parliamentary Sitting

    Young Women Debate Cannabis Policy in Mock Parliamentary Sitting

    In a dynamic demonstration of civic engagement, participants of Antigua and Barbuda’s Young Women in Leadership programme convened a mock parliamentary session to debate cannabis legislation reform during International Women’s Day observances. The special sitting featured a comprehensive examination of a proposed motion to establish a Joint Select Committee tasked with reviewing existing cannabis laws through both human rights and gender-responsive perspectives.

    The parliamentary simulation focused on the Cannabis Act 2022 and related drug amendments, with proponents arguing that periodic legislative reviews are essential for maintaining relevance in an evolving society. One delegate emphasized that “a responsible government does not just pass reforms, it safeguards and ensures that its citizens are taken care of,” advocating for integrated educational campaigns within any revised cannabis policy framework.

    Advocates maintained that a specialized committee would enable thorough consultation with experts and community stakeholders while assessing the socioeconomic and public health implications of recent cannabis reforms. Supporters further contended that structured evaluation could identify deficiencies in public education, law enforcement protocols, and regulatory mechanisms while simultaneously fostering youth protection and economic inclusion within the emerging cannabis sector.

    The opposition voiced skepticism regarding the necessity of establishing new parliamentary structures, noting that significant legislative reforms had already been implemented in recent years. One participant cautioned that premature revisiting of the legal framework could generate policy uncertainty, suggesting that society required additional time to adapt to existing changes.

    Alternative proposals emerged suggesting that current government institutions already possess sufficient expertise to conduct legislative analysis without creating additional bureaucratic layers. Health concerns featured prominently in the discourse, with references to regional data indicating substantial marijuana usage among student populations and calls for science-based decision-making in future policy considerations.

    Despite divergent perspectives, the deliberation underscored the multifaceted nature of cannabis policy, intersecting with criminal justice, economic development, public health, and human rights considerations. Program organizers designed the exercise to provide practical experience in parliamentary procedures while stimulating informed dialogue on national policy matters. The leadership initiative aims to cultivate future female leaders by enhancing capabilities in public address, legislative debate, and governance principles.

  • UN raises alarm over humanitarian impact as Middle East conflict intensifies

    UN raises alarm over humanitarian impact as Middle East conflict intensifies

    WASHINGTON, DC – United Nations agencies are issuing grave warnings about the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation across the Middle East as military conflicts intensify. With escalating violence creating widespread civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, populations in Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon face unprecedented risks according to UN assessments.

    During a March 9th press briefing at UN Headquarters in New York, Secretary-General spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric expressed particular concern about reported strikes targeting oil installations. “Attacks on such facilities could trigger severe environmental consequences with far-reaching impacts on air quality and water security,” Dujarric stated, emphasizing that environmental fallout could affect millions of civilians.

    The warnings come amid heightened tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The Trump administration has initiated military operations targeting Iranian leadership with reported Israeli support, conducting multiple strikes against government-linked facilities. Iran has responded with retaliatory attacks against U.S. military installations in allied nations including Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, resulting in significant infrastructure damage and seven confirmed U.S. military fatalities.

    Lebanon faces particularly severe humanitarian deterioration, with UN agencies reporting extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. Evacuation orders remain enforced across southern Lebanon and Beirut’s southern suburbs, displacing large population segments. Health services have been critically compromised with five hospitals and dozens of primary healthcare centers forced to suspend operations due to ongoing violence.

    Humanitarian organizations continue providing assistance despite resource constraints, distributing hot meals, bedding, hygiene supplies, and over 80,000 liters of fuel to support tens of thousands of displaced persons. Children affected by the crisis are receiving psychosocial support and alternative education programs where possible.

    The UN emphasizes that international support is urgently needed to address rapidly growing humanitarian needs. Dujarric reiterated calls for full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which aims to maintain stability along the Israel-Lebanon border, noting this will be central to ongoing diplomatic efforts.