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  • Bartlett receives Global Tourism Resilience Lifetime Achievement Award in Nairobi

    Bartlett receives Global Tourism Resilience Lifetime Achievement Award in Nairobi

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has been honored with the Global Tourism Resilience Lifetime Achievement Award during the 4th Global Tourism Resilience Day ceremonies in Nairobi, Kenya. The prestigious recognition was presented on February 17, 2026, at the Safari Park Hotel, acknowledging Bartlett’s transformative contributions to global tourism security and sustainability.

    The award celebrates Minister Bartlett’s pioneering development of comprehensive resilience frameworks that have enhanced crisis preparedness and recovery capabilities across international tourism destinations. His innovative approaches have established resilience as a fundamental component of sustainable tourism development, enabling tourist destinations worldwide to better anticipate, withstand, and recover from various disruptions including natural disasters, pandemics, economic instability, and other global crises.

    Throughout his distinguished career, Bartlett has been instrumental in championing multinational collaboration, policy innovation, and capacity-building programs specifically designed to protect tourism—one of the world’s most critical economic sectors. His visionary leadership has facilitated stronger partnerships between governments, private sector entities, and global institutions, promoting strategies that encourage recovery, sustainability, and inclusive growth within tourism-dependent economies.

    In his acceptance address, Minister Bartlett reaffirmed his dedication to developing resilient tourism systems that empower local communities, safeguard livelihoods, and promote long-term economic stability. He stressed the critical need for ‘continued global cooperation to build adaptive frameworks capable of responding to emerging challenges in our increasingly interconnected world.’

    Bartlett attributed the honor to the collective efforts of the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre based in Jamaica, extending gratitude to both public and private partners who recognize the vital importance of building tourism resilience. Professor Waller, executive director of the Centre, praised Bartlett’s achievements, noting that the minister’s work represents ‘a huge win for both the minister and Jamaica’ on the global stage.

    The Global Tourism Resilience Lifetime Achievement Award is reserved for exceptional leaders whose contributions have created lasting, transformative impacts on the international tourism industry, setting new standards for excellence and innovation in the field.

  • Newly rebuilt flow mobile network awarded ‘Jamaica’s fastest’ by Ookla

    Newly rebuilt flow mobile network awarded ‘Jamaica’s fastest’ by Ookla

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Telecommunications provider Flow has received formal recognition as Jamaica’s fastest mobile network by global connectivity intelligence firm Ookla. This accolade arrives following substantial infrastructure investments made in response to Hurricane Melissa’s widespread impact on the island’s communication systems.

    Company executives revealed this achievement marks a significant milestone in Flow’s network enhancement initiative. Stephen Price, Vice President and General Manager at Flow, emphasized the award validates months of dedicated efforts by technical teams who accelerated restoration work post-hurricane to re-establish and improve mobile connectivity across Jamaica.

    Price outlined ambitious expansion plans set for 2026, including dozens of new mobile sites and acquisition of additional spectrum to increase network capacity. These developments are expected to deliver enhanced service quality and faster speeds to more regions. The expansion strategy specifically targets known coverage gaps through strategic placement of new infrastructure.

    Customer feedback mechanisms are playing a central role in guiding network improvements, with the company implementing advanced satellite backup connectivity to maintain service during future catastrophic events. Flow is simultaneously strengthening backup power capabilities at critical facilities to minimize service interruptions during power outages.

    Recent technological innovations include the December 2025 launch of Wi-Fi calling, enabling high-quality conversations over Wi-Fi connections without requiring additional applications. The company maintains its Flow Essential product, which provides text messaging via satellite in previously inaccessible remote areas.

    To increase accessibility, Flow has introduced new customer incentives and sweeteners designed to make latest-generation smartphones and mobile technology available at more affordable price points across the Jamaican market.

  • Scammer forfeits J$12 million, BMW X6 after Supreme Court order

    Scammer forfeits J$12 million, BMW X6 after Supreme Court order

    JAMAICA’S FINANCIAL CRACKDOWN: In a significant legal development, Jamaica’s Financial Investigations Division (FID) has successfully obtained a Supreme Court Consent Order to recover illicit gains from a decade-old lottery scam operation. The civil recovery proceedings, initiated under the nation’s Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), targeted assets acquired by defendant Simnel Mullings between 2009 and 2010.

    Court documents reveal compelling evidence demonstrating Mullings received over US$54,695 through numerous remittances from multiple senders in the United States during the specified period. These transactions were conclusively linked to unlawful activities associated with lottery fraud schemes.

    The January 2026 court mandate requires Mullings to pay J$12 million to the state, with J$4.5 million paid immediately upon settlement. The remaining J$7.5 million will be disbursed through 16 structured monthly installments of J$468,750, commencing February 2026.

    In addition to the financial penalty, the court ordered the forfeiture of a 2012 BMW X6 vehicle registered under an associate’s name but proven through financial investigation to be beneficially owned by Mullings. The luxury vehicle, described as being in excellent condition, now becomes state property.

    Keith Darien, Principal Director of Financial Crime Investigations at FID, emphasized the strategic importance of civil recovery mechanisms: “Civil recovery helps to stop crime from paying. Where evidence supports it, even without criminal conviction, we will employ due process to recover illicit benefits, deter offenders, and protect public interest, particularly when fraud and deception cause substantial harm both locally and internationally.”

    The case exemplifies Jamaica’s strengthened asset-recovery framework, which utilizes court-supervised processes and legal safeguards to remove the financial benefits of criminal activity, representing a sophisticated approach to combating financial crimes.

  • Banks urged to re-evaluate agricultural financing

    Banks urged to re-evaluate agricultural financing

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican government is spearheading a transformative initiative to redirect financial resources toward the agricultural sector. Floyd Green, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, has issued a compelling appeal to lending institutions, urging them to fundamentally reconsider their lending strategies by prioritizing agricultural investments over consumer financing.

    Minister Green criticized the prevailing banking preference for consumer loans—such as automobile financing—emphasizing that this approach must evolve to support national food security and economic resilience. He announced concrete measures to facilitate this shift, including directives to the Agro-Investment Corporation (AIC) to collaborate with banks in building analytical capabilities for evaluating agricultural enterprises.

    Historically, Jamaican banks employed trained agricultural specialists to assess farming proposals, but this expertise has diminished over time. To address this gap, the AIC will now provide free services to farmers—including business plan development and financial record-keeping support—while also working with financial institutions to enhance their ability to analyze agricultural loan applications.

    In parallel, the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) has revised its lending criteria to simplify farmers’ access to capital. Minister Green revealed ongoing discussions with the DBJ to initiate direct lending programs tailored to agricultural entrepreneurs. He additionally called upon People’s Cooperative (PC) banks to reengage significantly with the farming community by offering expansion capital.

    Further broadening the effort, the Ministry has requested technical assistance from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to evaluate Jamaica’s agricultural financing ecosystem and develop innovative financial instruments aimed at increasing funding accessibility for farmers.

    These initiatives complement the recently launched Matching Grant Scheme (MGS) under the Southern Plains Agricultural Development Project (SPAD), supported by the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Development Fund (UKCIF) and administered by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). The program targets enhanced economic stability for small and medium-scale farmers in St. Catherine and Clarendon through resource provision and infrastructure development managed by the AIC, including irrigation, drainage, and road improvements in key agricultural zones.

  • Supreme Court strikes down Trump’s sweeping tariffs

    Supreme Court strikes down Trump’s sweeping tariffs

    In a landmark constitutional ruling with profound implications for presidential power, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a decisive 6-3 judgment striking down former President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariff regime. The court determined these tariffs, enacted under emergency powers legislation, constituted an unconstitutional overreach of executive authority into Congress’s exclusive taxation powers.

    The ruling specifically invalidates the “reciprocal” tariffs Trump imposed on nearly all trading nations in April 2025, which he justified by declaring trade deficits a national emergency. Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, emphatically stated that “The Framers did not vest any part of the taxing power in the Executive Branch,” reinforcing fundamental separation of powers principles.

    Reacting with visible frustration, Trump announced intentions to implement an alternative global 10% tariff under different statutory authority lasting 150 days. He denounced the decision as “a disgrace” and expressed particular disappointment with the conservative justices whose appointments he engineered, yet who joined the majority opinion.

    The financial stakes are enormous—federal data indicates over $133 billion has been collected through these tariffs, with projected decade-long impacts approaching $3 trillion. The ruling opens complex legal pathways for businesses to seek refunds, though Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s dissenting opinion noted the refund process could become administratively “messy.

    Legal scholars hailed the decision as a victory for constitutional governance. Neal Katyal, representing challenging small businesses, characterized it as “a reaffirmation of our deepest constitutional values and the idea that Congress, not any one man, controls the power to tax.” The ruling employs the “major questions doctrine,” previously invoked against President Biden’s student loan forgiveness program, requiring clear congressional authorization for economically significant executive actions.

    International trading partners, including the European Union, are monitoring developments closely while advocating for continued tariff reduction. Despite this setback, Trump retains authority to impose duties through other legislative mechanisms, though with more constraints on scope and duration.

    The decision represents a rare judicial check on Trump’s expansive use of executive power, even as it leaves unanswered questions about ongoing trade negotiations and the mechanics of potential tariff refunds for affected businesses.

  • Bermuda recalls infant and baby milk formula products

    Bermuda recalls infant and baby milk formula products

    HAMILTON, Bermuda – In a critical public health alert, Bermuda’s Ministry of Health has initiated an immediate product recall for multiple batches of infant and follow-on milk formulas. The urgent action targets specific products from the Cow & Gate and Aptamil brands, manufactured by the international food conglomerate Danone, over potential contamination with cereulide, a harmful toxin known to induce severe gastrointestinal distress.

    The Ministry confirmed that environmental health officers have already commenced the removal of the identified 15 products from retail shelves across the island. Officials emphasized that the recalled items, which were available in local stores, pose a significant health risk to infants, potentially causing symptoms including acute nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping.

    Authorities are strongly urging all parents and caregivers to immediately cease using the affected formulas and to return them to their point of purchase for a full refund, irrespective of whether a receipt can be provided. For detailed information on the specific batch numbers involved in this recall, consumers are directed to the official resource website, www.cgbabyclub.co.uk.

    The Ministry has committed to ongoing surveillance of the situation and will disseminate further updates to the public as necessary, ensuring transparent communication throughout the remediation process.

  • Trump vows 10% global tariff after stinging court rebuke

    Trump vows 10% global tariff after stinging court rebuke

    In a significant legal and political development, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a major blow to former President Donald Trump’s trade agenda on Friday. The conservative-majority court, which includes two justices appointed by Trump himself, ruled 6-3 that the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant presidential authority to impose tariffs.

    The ruling specifically targeted Trump’s signature economic policy approach, which had relied on the IEEPA to justify various tariff measures implemented throughout his presidency. In an immediate and fiery response, Trump denounced the decision during an impromptu press conference, expressing shame at certain court members whom he accused without evidence of being influenced by foreign interests.

    Undeterred by the judicial setback, Trump announced his intention to implement a comprehensive 10% tariff on all imports using what he described as a separate executive authority. This uniform tariff proposal marks a departure from his previous strategy of implementing targeted, fluctuating rates designed to pressure specific trading partners. The former president contended that the court’s decision ultimately strengthened his position, claiming it left him ‘more powerful’ in his ability to impose even higher tariffs for national protection purposes.

    The legal rebuke and Trump’s subsequent reaction highlight ongoing tensions between executive power and judicial oversight in trade policy matters, setting the stage for potential future constitutional clashes regardless of November’s election outcome.

  • US trade partners cautiously welcome tariff ruling

    US trade partners cautiously welcome tariff ruling

    WASHINGTON (AFP) — International trading partners offered measured responses Friday to a landmark US Supreme Court decision that invalidated President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariff authority, while simultaneously bracing for his immediate pledge to impose alternative import taxes.

    The conservative-majority court determined Trump overstepped presidential authority by invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to justify broad tariffs. However, the ruling preserves sector-specific duties affecting steel, aluminum, and various other goods that remain central to ongoing trade disputes.

    Within hours of the decision, Trump announced intentions to implement a comprehensive 10% tariff on all US imports under separate executive authority, ensuring continued uncertainty for America’s trading partners.

    Canada’s International Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc characterized the court’s decision as validation that the original tariffs were “unjustified,” though noted that the most economically damaging sector-specific measures remain intact. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce warned against interpreting the ruling as a fundamental policy shift, predicting “new, blunter mechanisms” might emerge from the White House.

    European Union trade spokesman Olof Gill indicated the 27-nation bloc was conducting thorough analysis of the legal development while emphasizing the critical need for “stability and predictability” in transatlantic commerce. France’s Economy Minister Roland Lescure observed that the ruling demonstrated tariff policies were “at the very least, open to debate,” while German officials reported being in “close contact” with American counterparts regarding implementation changes.

    Britain expressed confidence that its “privileged trading position” with the United States would continue despite the legal upheaval, referencing recent bilateral agreements that reduced steel and aluminum tariffs significantly.

    Mexico, which directs approximately 80% of its exports to the US market, adopted a cautious stance regarding Trump’s newly announced 10% blanket tariff. Economic Minister Marcelo Ebrard stated officials would carefully evaluate potential impacts before determining appropriate response measures.

    The developments underscore how Trump’s aggressive use of executive power has fundamentally transformed America’s trade relationships, leaving international partners navigating an increasingly unpredictable economic landscape.

  • Tastee Cheese brings ‘Taste Eh Beat of Jamaica’ pop-up in Santa Cruz

    Tastee Cheese brings ‘Taste Eh Beat of Jamaica’ pop-up in Santa Cruz

    In a strategic move blending corporate social responsibility with brand engagement, Jamaican food manufacturer Tastee Cheese is deploying its ‘Taste Eh Beat of Jamaica’ pop-up experience to Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth this Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The event arrives as a deliberate effort to uplift communities recently devastated by Hurricane Melissa, combining entertainment with substantive relief efforts.

    Brand Manager Dionne Henry expressed both solemnity and optimism about the initiative. ‘While mindful of the recent hardships faced by these communities, we’re genuinely excited to reconnect with the people of St. Elizabeth,’ Henry stated. ‘This event represents more than entertainment—it’s about restoring normalcy, sharing survival narratives, and creating space for human connection beyond the chaos.’

    The pop-up will transform into a multifaceted community hub featuring continuous giveaways, a dedicated children’s area, live DJ performances, and a special appearance by an unannounced musical artist. Critically, the company has integrated direct hurricane relief into its commercial activity: a portion of proceeds from every Tastee Cheese product sold will be channeled into the Hurricane Melissa recovery fund.

    Henry attributed the brand’s sixty-year market presence to deliberate quality maintenance and cultural embeddedness. ‘Tastee Cheese has earned its standing through consistent quality, unique flavor profiles, and authentic Jamaican character,’ she explained. ‘Our longevity derives from being woven into the very fabric of Jamaican daily life and meaningful moments.’

    Marketing Manager Barrington Groves framed the event as both humanitarian response and seasonal strategy. ‘Recognizing St. Elizabeth among the hardest-hit parishes, we deemed it essential to bring joy as we enter the Easter period,’ Groves noted. ‘This presents the ideal opportunity to reciprocate the steadfast support of our consumers.’

    Anticipating strong turnout, Groves encouraged community participation: ‘Join us for music, special offers, and firsthand experience with our new easy-open packaging—featuring the same classic Tastee Cheese in enhanced convenience. Together we’ll celebrate resilience through dance, music, and shared smiles.’

  • Bill Express and Elhydro power rural student travel with islandwide top-up access

    Bill Express and Elhydro power rural student travel with islandwide top-up access

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – A significant enhancement to Jamaica’s National Rural School Bus Programme (NRSBP) now enables students and parents to reload transportation cards through an expanded network of physical locations across the island. GraceKennedy Payment Services (GKPS) has formally partnered with Elhydro Limited to introduce in-store top-up services available at all Bill Express outlets, according to a recent company announcement.

    This collaborative initiative addresses critical accessibility challenges by establishing dependable, tangible locations for managing student travel finances throughout rural parishes. The service operates exclusively on a cash basis, with deposited funds becoming active on bus cards within 30 minutes of transaction completion. Notably, the program imposes no restrictions on transaction frequency or maximum top-up amounts.

    To utilize the service, customers must present the alphanumeric identifier displayed on the student card. Initial registrants need to supply additional details including full name, contact number, residential address, and optional email information. All collected data will be utilized solely for transactional, informational, and promotional purposes according to the company’s privacy guidelines.

    Eligibility guidelines permit independent top-ups by students aged 15 and above presenting valid identification, while younger students require adult accompaniment during transactions.

    Margaret Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of GraceKennedy Money Services, emphasized the corporation’s dedication to national social development during the partnership signing ceremony at GraceKennedy’s Kingston headquarters. “This integration transcends mere financial transactions by actively supporting the educational continuum of Jamaica’s youth while delivering practical convenience and reassurance to families,” Campbell stated.

    Terence Slater, Regional Manager at GKPS, highlighted the program’s extensive reach through over 300 retail facilities. “Our strategic objective focuses on serving customers across all geographical constraints, particularly benefiting residents in remote regions experiencing connectivity limitations,” Slater explained.

    Elhydro Limited Vice President Major Paul Brown noted the partnership’s critical timing, observing how the physical top-up solution assists families still grappling with internet infrastructure damage caused by Hurricane Melissa.

    To facilitate adoption, GraceKennedy will implement a subsidized transaction fee of $25 JMD until June 30, 2026, after which the standard $65 JMD charge will apply. Launched in September 2025, the NRSBP provides affordable transportation solutions for students across thirteen rural parishes including St. Andrew, St. Catherine, Clarendon, and Portland.