Carib Scope

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  • Abinader to attend annual semiconductor meeting in California

    Abinader to attend annual semiconductor meeting in California

    President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic is set to embark on a significant diplomatic and economic mission to San Jose, California, on November 20. His visit comes at the invitation of the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), recognizing the country’s strides in developing a robust and dependable ecosystem for semiconductor investments. Abinader will be joined by Minister of Industry and Commerce Víctor “Ito” Bisonó and a delegation of private-sector representatives as part of the National Strategy for the Promotion of the Semiconductor Industry (Enfis).

    During the Semiconductor Annual Meeting, the Dominican team will engage with top executives from global semiconductor giants, including Intel, TSMC, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, and Micron. The primary objective is to forge stronger alliances and position the Dominican Republic as a trusted partner for companies looking to diversify their production chains away from Asia.

    The Dominican Republic is focusing on several key areas within the semiconductor industry, including the manufacturing of discrete semiconductors and passive components, assembly, testing, and packaging (ATP) of mature-node chips, and the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and chip integration into electronic devices. These sectors are currently dominated by China, but the Dominican Republic aims to capitalize on its logistical advantages, free zone system, and precision manufacturing capabilities to meet U.S. supply chain demands.

    President Abinader emphasized that this event is a pivotal opportunity to showcase the nation’s potential. Several free zone companies in the Dominican Republic are already in advanced discussions with major global players, signaling a promising future for the country’s semiconductor industry.

  • San Pedro Vessel Grounded After Steering Malfunction

    San Pedro Vessel Grounded After Steering Malfunction

    A routine water taxi journey between San Pedro and Caye Caulker took an unexpected turn over the weekend when a San Pedro Belize Express vessel experienced a steering malfunction and ran aground on a small island west of San Pedro. The incident, which occurred on November 17, 2025, involved 40 individuals, including 36 passengers and 2 crew members. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, but the Belize Port Authority and the Belize Coast Guard have launched investigations to determine the cause of the accident.

    Ports Commissioner Kaylon Young confirmed that the vessel encountered mechanical issues with its steering system, leading it to veer into shallow waters near the island. He emphasized the importance of identifying the root cause, whether it was related to the vessel’s condition, the competence of the crew, or the navigation equipment. Young also highlighted the stringent annual inspections and safety requirements for commercial passenger vessels, underscoring the need to ensure passenger safety.

    Lieutenant Mark Choc, Operations Officer of the Coast Guard, described the swift response to the incident, with rescue teams arriving within 5 to 10 minutes after being alerted by a fisherman. He confirmed that the vessel was ‘high and dry’ and that all crew members were safe, with no serious injuries observed. Choc stressed the critical importance of rapid response in such emergencies, noting that the Coast Guard aims to maintain a 15-minute response time to prevent potential loss of life.

    While the exact cause of the grounding remains under investigation, authorities are committed to uncovering the factors that led to the incident. A second vessel from the same company arrived shortly after to safely transport passengers from the scene. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to be released once the findings are complete.

  • CARICOM Leaders Pledge Support After Touring Hurricane-Hit Jamaica

    CARICOM Leaders Pledge Support After Touring Hurricane-Hit Jamaica

    In a powerful demonstration of regional solidarity, leaders from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) embarked on a one-day tour of hurricane-ravaged communities in western Jamaica on November 17. The delegation, which included heads of government from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, and Guyana, was accompanied by CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett and representatives from the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean. Their journey took them from Montego Bay to White House, Westmoreland, the epicenter of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, where they assessed the damage and engaged with affected residents. Leaders emphasized the symbolic and personal significance of their visit, highlighting the shared vulnerability of Caribbean nations to natural disasters. They expressed unwavering confidence in Jamaica’s resilience and ability to recover stronger. Barbados pledged a field hospital and additional garbage-removal trucks, while Guyana committed engineering support from its Defence Force, debris removal assistance, and 200 roofs for housing repairs. Other CARICOM member states and associate members also offered aid. The mission, supported by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and the Regional Security System (RSS), underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in rebuilding communities and enhancing disaster preparedness for future challenges.

  • UPDATE: Police investigate shooting death in Silver Lake

    UPDATE: Police investigate shooting death in Silver Lake

    The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has launched an investigation into the tragic shooting death of Eddie Anthony James, a 32-year-old resident of Silver Lake. The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, November 14, 2025, when James was fatally shot inside his home by unidentified attackers. Acting Superintendent Chaucer James, head of the Criminal Investigation Department, confirmed the details and urged the public to assist with the ongoing investigation. A man previously held in custody has been released pending further inquiries. Superintendent James emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully, stating that such violent behavior is detrimental to society. He assured the public that the police are committed to preventing such incidents and called for community cooperation to bring the perpetrators to justice.

  • Byron James’ Family Says His Murder Was ‘Mistaken Identity’

    Byron James’ Family Says His Murder Was ‘Mistaken Identity’

    The tragic murder of 36-year-old Byron James has left his family in shock, as they believe he was the victim of mistaken identity. The incident occurred late Friday night when two masked gunmen entered the yard of his Castle Street home and fatally shot him. Byron’s sister-in-law, Leah James, recounted the harrowing moments, stating that the attack happened just seconds after he stepped outside for a cigarette. She described rushing to the scene and being the first to see his lifeless body on the ground. Leah also revealed that her seven-year-old daughter witnessed the gunfire, adding to the family’s trauma. Byron’s brother, Nikolai James, spoke of Byron’s efforts to turn his life around, emphasizing his role as a loving uncle and his desire to leave his troubled past behind. Byron had recently been released from Belize Central Prison after a prolonged legal battle related to a 2012 murder conviction. The case had been stalled due to procedural delays, leading to his eventual release. Police have detained one man for questioning and recovered two nine-millimetre pistols, which will undergo ballistic testing. Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith confirmed that no motive has been established yet. The family is now grappling with the loss of a man they say was striving for redemption.

  • Universal Church has no right to exclusive parking – City Mayor

    Universal Church has no right to exclusive parking – City Mayor

    Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore has firmly stated that the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG) does not possess exclusive parking rights on Charlotte and Wellington streets. This declaration followed a heated confrontation between a church representative and a member of the public over parking space outside the church. The dispute escalated when the church representative claimed the area was a ‘private zone,’ a statement vehemently denied by the individual involved. The altercation, captured on video, saw the church representative act aggressively, even brandishing a cutlass, which was quickly removed by another church associate. Mayor Mentore expressed his disappointment with the pastor’s behavior, emphasizing that the city council had never granted the church any reserved parking privileges. City workers were dispatched to remove any ‘No Parking’ signs and ensure public access to the parking area. The incident, monitored by government CCTV, underscores the tension between public rights and perceived private claims in urban spaces.

  • CONFIRMED: Jose Abelardo Mai Resigns from Cabinet

    CONFIRMED: Jose Abelardo Mai Resigns from Cabinet

    In a significant political development, Jose Abelardo Mai has officially resigned from his position as Minister of Agriculture. The resignation was confirmed on November 17, 2025, with reports indicating that Mai submitted his resignation letter to Prime Minister John Briceño earlier in the afternoon. Sources suggest that Mai’s departure was influenced by mounting pressure from the Prime Minister, who is reportedly under scrutiny from the United States government. The exact reasons behind Mai’s resignation remain unclear, but it follows a highly publicized controversy in October. During that time, Mai vehemently denied allegations linking him to criminal activity, which had surfaced in a viral social media post. He labeled the accusations as “highly defamatory” and dismissed them as entirely fabricated. Mai also accused certain media outlets and political agents of the UDP (United Democratic Party) of conspiring to tarnish his reputation. Despite attempts by News 5 to seek his comments, Mai has remained silent on the matter. This resignation marks a pivotal moment in Belizean politics, raising questions about the dynamics within the current administration and its relationship with external stakeholders.

  • Hoe Meituan de stadsstraten tot leven brengt

    Hoe Meituan de stadsstraten tot leven brengt

    In the bustling streets of China, Meituan has transformed urban logistics with its innovative use of drones and e-scooters. The company, which began as a group discount platform, has evolved into a comprehensive service provider, catering to millions of users. Over the past year, Meituan reported 770 million users and 14.5 million active merchants, with an average of 3.36 million delivery personnel active monthly. On July 12, 2025, the company achieved a record-breaking 150 million daily orders for online shopping, and the average monthly income of frequent delivery personnel increased by 12% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the end of 2024, reaching 7,230-10,100 RMB (US$ 1,018-1,422).

    Meituan’s growth is closely tied to China’s economic development and technological advancements. The company integrates technology into daily life, aiming to ‘help people eat better and live better.’ Beyond food delivery, Meituan offers services such as hotel and flight bookings, tourist trips, fresh produce delivery, and daily necessities. Users can also arrange cleaning services, bike and car rentals, movie tickets, and more through the platform.

    While Meituan dominates the Chinese market, it is also expanding internationally. In May 2023, it launched the meal delivery brand Keeta in Hong Kong as a test site for global expansion. By August 2024, Meituan decided to continue its food delivery operations under the Keeta brand, which is now active in markets like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Brazil, officially starting in Santos and São Vicente in October 2025.

    Drone deliveries have become a staple of Meituan’s logistics operations. High above the city, small drones swiftly and silently navigate to their destinations, sometimes bypassing heavy traffic and narrow streets. This adds a futuristic element to the already dynamic urban landscape, highlighting the fusion of technology and city life.

    Despite its success, Meituan faces challenges, including concerns over delivery personnel’s working conditions and increasing regulations in China to better govern the sector. For many in China, Meituan’s yellow color has become a familiar and recognizable symbol, deeply intertwined with daily life.

  • ULP manifesto — the difference between ‘plans and a postcard,’ says Camillo

    ULP manifesto — the difference between ‘plans and a postcard,’ says Camillo

    Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves has unveiled the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) 2025 election manifesto, emphasizing its focus on substantive policies over superficial gimmicks. Speaking at a rally in Colonarie, Gonsalves outlined the ULP’s plans to reduce income tax to 22% and raise the tax-free threshold to EC$30,000, measures he described as impactful for working-class citizens in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He contrasted these policies with the New Democratic Party’s (NDP) proposal to cut VAT from 16% to 13%, arguing that the ULP’s approach would yield greater financial benefits for individuals, such as an extra EC$1,500 annually for constables and over EC$2,000 for teachers and nurses. Gonsalves also highlighted the ULP’s commitment to job creation, citing the addition of 6,500 jobs over the past five years despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, the La Soufriere volcanic eruption, and Hurricane Beryl. He pledged to create 6,000 more jobs if re-elected, aiming to reduce unemployment below 5% for the first time in the nation’s history. Additionally, the ULP plans to open a Beaches resort, attract EC$2.5 billion in foreign investment, and boost GDP from EC$3 billion to EC$4 billion within five years. Gonsalves concluded by asserting the ULP’s vision to transform St. Vincent and the Grenadines into a first-world nation within 15 years, grounded in principled policies and a commitment to the people.

  • Dominican team to bring Creole cuisine to 2025 St. Martin Gastronomie Festival

    Dominican team to bring Creole cuisine to 2025 St. Martin Gastronomie Festival

    Dominica is poised to make a grand impression at the 2025 St. Martin Gastronomie Festival, as the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) prepares to participate in the event’s grand finale on November 22. The festival, running from November 11 to 22, is one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious culinary gatherings, attracting chefs, food enthusiasts, and tourism professionals from across the region. Dominica’s participation aims to highlight the island’s burgeoning food tourism sector and its rich Creole culinary heritage. Leading the Dominican delegation is Chef Nyanda, who will conduct live cooking demonstrations, while Ms. Makerah George, the Marketing Executive for the Caribbean, will engage with festival partners to promote Dominica’s culinary offerings and its growing reputation for authentic gastronomic experiences. Chef Nyanda will showcase two signature dishes: Codfish Sancoche with Smoked Chicken, and Calalloo Rosemary Vinaigrette paired with Dasheen Croquettes and Spicy Mango Chutney. These dishes, crafted with locally sourced ingredients, embody the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean while emphasizing Dominica’s creativity, sustainability, and deep connection to its natural environment. Odile Jno Baptiste, Product Promotions Manager at the DDA, emphasized the festival’s significance, stating, ‘This event provides an excellent opportunity for Dominica to showcase its unique food culture and reinforce our position as a destination where nature, culture, and cuisine seamlessly blend.’ In addition to the culinary demonstrations, Dominica’s booth will feature local sweets, rums, and tourism brochures, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into the island’s traditions and diverse travel experiences. The DDA’s involvement underscores its commitment to advancing culinary tourism as a key component of its destination marketing strategy. The festival also serves as a platform to foster new collaborations, enhance visibility, and position Dominica as a premier culinary destination in the Caribbean.