Carib Scope

分类： business

  • FAO strengthens protections to support Grenada’s soursop-valued economy

    FAO strengthens protections to support Grenada’s soursop-valued economy

    Grenada maintains a globally unique position as the sole nation authorized to export fresh non-irradiated soursop to the United States, creating both exceptional economic opportunity and substantial biosecurity responsibility. This privileged market access establishes soursop as a strategic high-value commodity, generating approximately US$2.6 million annually while supporting nearly 2,600 predominantly smallholder farmers whose livelihoods depend on the crop’s continued viability.

    Recognizing the critical importance of protecting this agricultural sector, a tripartite collaboration between the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Grenada’s Ministry of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry, and the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) has launched a comprehensive initiative to enhance sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) capabilities throughout the soursop value chain.

    As a cornerstone of this effort, FAO jointly convened a three-day intensive workshop titled ‘Risks and Anticipatory Frameworks for the Soursop Industry’ from February 9-11, 2026, at Grenada’s National Stadium. The capacity-building event brought together 31 participants (18 female, 13 male) from multiple agricultural agencies including the Ministry’s technical units for extension services, pest management, and forestry, alongside representatives from the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) and the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA).

    The curriculum focused on developing advanced competencies in plant health risk anticipation through improved surveillance methodologies, early warning systems for pest detection, sample reporting protocols, scenario planning, and coordinated response mechanisms. This cross-sectoral approach enabled meaningful dialogue on strengthening protective measures for Grenada’s vulnerable soursop industry.

    Complementary project components include developing a holistic surveillance program with emergency response protocols, enhancing institutional capacities for pest detection and certification, piloting traceability systems for export compliance, and building farmer capabilities in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

    FAO Production and Plant Protection Specialist Anne Desrochers emphasized the strategic importance of these efforts: ‘Grenada’s exclusive access to the United States market for fresh soursop presents a significant and timely opportunity to strengthen the livelihoods of farmers and uplift rural communities.’ Participant feedback confirmed the training’s value, particularly appreciating the balance between theoretical foundations and practical exercises that facilitated collaborative learning.

    The workshop concluded with participants identifying key implementation actions, potential barriers, and collaboration mechanisms to strengthen anticipatory responses within the soursop value chain, ensuring the continued viability of Grenada’s unique agricultural export.

  • Boeren in het binnenland houden vol ondanks vele uitdagingen

    Boeren in het binnenland houden vol ondanks vele uitdagingen

    In the heart of Suriname’s Brokopondo district, what appears to be barren ground covered with bauxite, pebbles, and dry sand belies an agricultural transformation underway just meters away. Here, amidst seemingly infertile conditions, farmers Elvia Asodanoe and Duku have cultivated remarkable plantations featuring diverse crops including pineapple, okra, Chinese tayer, and bitter gourd.

    During a field visit this past Saturday, Agriculture Minister Mike Noersalim praised the perseverance of these farmers, stating: “It’s commendable that farmers persist despite all challenges.” Accompanied by Edmund Duiker, chairman of the NOFA Fund, the minister assessed the obstacles confronting local agricultural producers in the interior regions.

    Asodanoe, one of the visiting female farmers, expressed ambitions to not only expand her pineapple cultivation but also introduce new crops like soursop and markoosa. She remains confident about receiving necessary support for these ventures. Similarly, her partner Duku seeks to expand fruit production while modernizing his traditional farming methods.

    Minister Noersalim clarified that the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) actively encourages interior farmers to scale production and enhance market access. The NOFA Fund plays a pivotal role in this initiative by providing affordable loans to horticulture and agricultural entrepreneurs. Beyond financial assistance, the fund offers guidance on cooperative collaboration, production consolidation, and market distribution—enabling farmers to market products more efficiently and access both local and international markets.

    A significant challenge identified particularly for women farmers in interior regions remains the lack of land titles, which complicates financing applications for expansion. Duiker emphasized that the NOFA Fund specifically targets those engaged in agriculture, livestock, or fisheries, offering substantially lower interest rates than commercial banks. He described the fund as a crucial accelerator for agricultural development, supporting investments in machinery, irrigation, and knowledge transfer to ensure sustainable and commercially viable production.

    Noersalim stressed the ministry’s role in giving agricultural entrepreneurs “a push forward” to achieve accelerated development. “Not only planting is important,” he noted, “but we will also stimulate product marketing and processing support in the coming period.”

    The ministry announced forthcoming visits to Pokigron to consult with village farmers planning expansion and commercial operations. Both LVV and NOFA urge all agricultural entrepreneurs throughout Suriname to leverage the opportunities provided by the fund.

  • LISTEN: PM Says Emirates Flight From Dubai to Antigua Expected With One & Only Development

    LISTEN: PM Says Emirates Flight From Dubai to Antigua Expected With One & Only Development

    Antigua and Barbuda is poised to secure a transformative Emirates flight connection from Dubai upon completion of the ultra-luxury One & Only resort at Half Moon Bay, according to Prime Minister Gaston Browne. The announcement, made during a recent Pointe FM appearance, positions this development as a cornerstone in the nation’s strategy to enhance global connectivity and establish itself as the Caribbean’s premier aviation hub.

    Prime Minister Browne emphasized that the forthcoming air link is directly tied to the resort’s construction timeline, stating that the Emirates service would commence immediately following the hotel’s completion. This strategic connection is expected to dramatically elevate the twin-island nation’s international profile while driving unprecedented tourism growth.

    Beyond the landmark One & Only project, Browne outlined an extensive portfolio of luxury developments currently transforming the nation’s tourism landscape. The Nobu Hotel in Barbuda, backed by Hollywood icon Robert De Niro, is progressing with its first phase scheduled for completion by year-end and operational readiness by first quarter 2025. Simultaneously, the PLH development in Barbuda has attracted approximately $1 billion USD in investment, complemented by ongoing infrastructure enhancements at Nikki Beach.

    Additional high-end projects include a Marriott hotel at Yeptons anticipated to conclude construction by December with operations commencing early next year, significantly expanding the country’s luxury accommodation inventory. The former Rosewood property has also secured a new luxury brand partnership, with developers moving forward aggressively rather than delaying the project.

    Browne identified the One & Only resort as the ‘marquee’ project within their development pipeline—an ultra-exclusive property expected to anchor Antigua and Barbuda’s ascent into the highest echelon of global tourism destinations. The government is concurrently negotiating additional airlift initiatives beyond traditional markets, including expanded cargo and passenger routes with multiple entities.

    The substantial scale of these investments reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s growing international appeal, with Browne noting the nation has achieved global recognition as a premium destination. This strategic focus on high-end development represents a comprehensive transformation initiative for the country’s tourism sector.

  • Eerste ananastelers krijgen lening voor opschaling productie

    Eerste ananastelers krijgen lening voor opschaling productie

    Six indigenous pineapple growers in Suriname have formalized loan agreements to expand organic pineapple production, marking a significant advancement in strengthening the country’s agricultural value chain. The milestone signing ceremony occurred on Monday as part of the Agrifood Systems Transformation Accelerator (ASTA) Joint Programme, a collaborative initiative involving four United Nations agencies—FAO, UNIDO, UNFPA, and ILO—in partnership with the Surinamese government.

    Funded by the Joint SDG Fund and Islamic Development Bank, the program specifically targets sustainable development within Suriname’s pineapple sector. Approximately 90% of pineapple farmers in Suriname are indigenous communities operating collectively owned lands in Para’s village territories. Their lack of individual land titles has historically prevented access to traditional bank financing due to insufficient collateral.

    To overcome this barrier, ASTA established a Collateral Facility Fund managed by Trustbank Amanah (TBA), which serves as guarantee security for financial institutions. Roshnie Gangapershad, Acting Agri Business Manager at TBA, explained that loan applications undergo rigorous feasibility assessments before approval.

    The Horticulture Innovation HUB, established in 2024 under the ASTA project, provides comprehensive support through two core pillars: enhanced agricultural practices and strengthened agro-entrepreneurship. National agronomist Hemwatie Goeptar detailed the technical assistance process, which begins with thorough agronomic analysis covering field conditions, planting design, and fertilization programs developed in consultation with farmers and village leadership.

    Practical implementation is already underway. Farmers Jerry Birambie and Harvey Read from Pierre Kondre have prepared one-hectare plots for soil enhancement and planting. Despite equipment accessibility challenges in remote regions—Jeanne Patra from Marowijne requires machinery transported from Para—the program maintains momentum through adaptive solutions.

    Continuous field support remains crucial to the project’s success. Goeptar and field agents assist growers with irrigation, fertilization, and maintenance protocols. The application of artificial flower induction technology enables year-round production, with flowering induced after nine months and harvest occurring approximately fourteen months post-planting.

    Additional growers are preparing for expansion. Stuart Makosie from Powaka will commence land preparation shortly, while Cyrell Sabajo from Matta has established an on-site bio-factory for organic fertilizers and natural pesticides following training sessions.

    According to Swami Girdhari of the Horticulture Innovation HUB, the project aims not only to increase production but also to modernize the sector and attract youth participation. Innovative digital applications facilitate knowledge sharing, communication, and monitoring. Future phases will focus on processing and value-added pineapple products to enhance market opportunities both domestically and for export.

  • Productie Krediet Fonds keurt SRD 41 miljoen goed: groei productie en werkgelegenheid

    Productie Krediet Fonds keurt SRD 41 miljoen goed: groei productie en werkgelegenheid

    Suriname’s Production Credit Fund (PKF) has demonstrated significant economic impact in its second year of operation, approving over SRD 41 million in loans that substantially enhanced production capacity and job creation across the nation. According to the fund’s second impact report presented to President Jennifer Simons by the National Development Bank, credit demand has surged dramatically, enabling businesses to expand their production output by nearly 50 percent on average.

    The fund, specifically targeting small and medium-sized enterprises, has experienced accelerated activity with credit applications increasing by approximately 63 percent. The average loan size has grown to SRD 1.7 million, reflecting both increased business confidence and expanding operational needs.

    Beyond production growth, the PKF has made substantial contributions to Suriname’s labor market. Companies receiving financing have expanded their workforce by an average of 25 percent, with recent projects estimated to create between 63 and 108 new jobs collectively.

    While the majority of loans have benefited businesses in Paramaribo and Wanica, districts such as Nickerie, Para, and Marowijne are showing increased application rates. However, the report highlights ongoing concerns regarding regional distribution and gender equity, with female entrepreneurs experiencing lower approval rates.

    The fund has identified structural challenges facing Surinamese entrepreneurs, including bureaucratic procedures, land allocation issues, and inadequate financial management systems. In response, PKF has expanded its mandate beyond credit provision to include technical assistance and policy improvement initiatives.

    Recently introduced youth credit programs target entrepreneurs aged 18-27, while future priorities include innovation support, enhanced assistance for women and youth entrepreneurs, and strategic partnership development. After two years of successful operation, the PKF has transitioned from pilot project to recognized instrument for economic growth and diversification in Suriname.

  • BSCFA Rejects PM Briceno’s Offer!

    BSCFA Rejects PM Briceno’s Offer!

    BELIZE CITY – The Belize sugar industry faces escalating tensions as cane farmers delivered a resounding rejection of a government-brokered settlement proposal during an emergency general meeting on Sunday. The Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association (BSCFA) overwhelmingly voted against abandoning their ongoing legal battle with processing giant BSI/ASR, despite a substantial million-dollar fertilizer assistance package offered as incentive.

    The core dispute centers on the contentious allocation of Fairtrade premiums, which farmers assert are rightfully theirs. The government-supported proposal required farmers to drop all related court cases in exchange for the financial assistance package—a condition growers found unacceptable.

    Alfredo Ortega, Chairman of the BSCFA Orange Walk Branch, emphasized that the decision transcended financial considerations. “The farmers voted yesterday that we continue with the court case because what was being asked for them to drop was not beneficial to the farmers,” Ortega stated. “This is about principle, fairness, and maintaining control over what is rightfully ours.”

    The meeting featured detailed presentations from legal counsel Magali Marin and her team, who comprehensively explained the implications of the ongoing litigation. Following these explanations, farmers voted decisively to continue their legal pursuit rather than accept the proposed settlement.

    Complicating matters further, Prime Minister John Briceño’s recent departure from the BSCFA to align with the Progressive Sugar Cane Farmers Association has raised concerns about industry fragmentation. Ortega acknowledged the Prime Minister’s right to choose his association but questioned the leadership precedent being set. “As a leader, he’s supposed to work along with producers at large to ensure the sugar industry benefits from the labor that farmers do,” Ortega commented, warning that such moves could deepen divisions within an industry desperately requiring unity.

    The standoff reflects deepening frustration and eroding trust in a sector already strained by economic pressures, setting the stage for a prolonged legal and political battle that could determine the future of Belize’s sugar industry.

  • Caribbean Energy Shift Puts People First

    Caribbean Energy Shift Puts People First

    The Caribbean energy sector is undergoing a profound transformation that places human development at the forefront of its transition strategy. Industry executives revealed during the recent CARILEC conference that the critical challenge isn’t technological adoption but cultivating a skilled, adaptable workforce capable of driving the region’s renewable energy shift.

    Cletus Bertin, Executive Director of CARILEC, emphasized that the annual conference establishes the strategic direction for utilities across the region. “This gathering focuses specifically on human resource management, corporate communications, and customer service excellence,” Bertin explained. “We’re guiding practitioners to share experiences, learn from experts, and build collaborative networks that support our collective transformation.”

    The regional transition from traditional fossil fuels to high renewable energy penetration represents more than just technical overhaul. According to Bertin, these changes are fundamentally centered on people—requiring new attitudes, skill sets, roles, and communication strategies for both internal and external stakeholders.

    Omari Frederick, Corporate Communications Manager at St. Lucia Electricity Services Ltd, highlighted the conference’s unique value in facilitating knowledge exchange. “Beyond the learning and engagement opportunities, the utility updates session allows every organization to present their achievements and challenges from human resource, communications, and customer service perspectives,” Frederick noted.

    Frederick further articulated the broader societal responsibility of energy providers: “Utility companies aren’t just responsible for providing power—each of us contributes to economic and social progress in our countries. Without reliable energy, development stagnates. This enormous responsibility demands that we unify, exchange ideas, and implement best practices to strengthen our collective impact.”

    Industry leaders unanimously agree that a people-first strategy will be the driving force behind the Caribbean’s successful energy transition, making workforce development and collaborative approaches the new blueprint for regional power sector transformation.

  • Confenagro endorses government’s food security plan

    Confenagro endorses government’s food security plan

    SANTO DOMINGO – The National Confederation of Agricultural Producers (Confenagro) has publicly endorsed President Luis Abinader’s recent address on global economic challenges, characterizing his assessment as both timely and constructive. The agricultural organization emphasized the critical importance of bolstering domestic food production capabilities amid international market volatility.

    Under the leadership of Wilfredo Cabrera, Confenagro has formally expressed its commitment to partner with governmental agencies to safeguard national food security. The confederation asserts that Dominican agricultural stakeholders stand ready to prevent food shortages and ensure no families face hunger. The group particularly welcomed the administration’s RD$1 billion fertilizer subsidy program, designed to counteract soaring international prices and stabilize local food markets.

    The agricultural body voiced strong support for initiatives promoting organic fertilizer alternatives and reducing dependency on imported agricultural inputs. These measures, according to Confenagro, should form part of a comprehensive strategy to combat escalating production expenses driven by rising fuel, transportation, and agricultural input costs.

    Additionally, the organization recommended expanding governmental support to encompass other essential agricultural components including pesticides, herbicides, and farming machinery. Confenagro stressed the necessity of continuous monitoring of international price fluctuations and local production expenses to avoid disruptions within the food supply network.

    In concluding remarks, the confederation highlighted the strategic significance of prioritizing local producers in public procurement processes. Confenagro reaffirmed its dedication to collaborative efforts with the government to maintain agricultural output, enhance food security systems, and cushion Dominican households from the adverse effects of global economic pressures.

  • Luchthavenbeheer mikt op groei: 1 miljoen reizigers en nieuwe terminal

    Luchthavenbeheer mikt op groei: 1 miljoen reizigers en nieuwe terminal

    Suriname’s Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (JAP) has unveiled ambitious expansion plans targeting one million annual passengers and construction of a new terminal, positioning the facility as a key driver for national economic growth. The announcement came during the airport’s 30th anniversary celebrations where officials emphasized its strategic role as Suriname’s gateway to the world.

    Transport, Communication and Tourism Minister Raymond Landveld highlighted the critical importance of enhanced connectivity and improved service efficiency, describing the airport as “the portal to the global community.” The government is prioritizing strengthening the airport’s operational foundation with focused investments in safety protocols, facility upgrades, and expansion of international routes.

    Airport Management Director Vijay Chotkan identified the new terminal construction as a top priority within the Airport Expansion Project. The Commissiedienst Suriname reports that stakeholders have already initiated discussions to accelerate the project, potentially through international tender processes.

    The expansion strategy includes increased involvement of local communities surrounding Wit Santi and Hollandse Kamp, ensuring residents benefit from the airport’s economic development. Chotkan emphasized the urgency of rapid development, particularly given anticipated growth in Suriname’s oil and gas sector, citing Guyana’s similar sector-driven expansion and increased international air connections as a successful model.

    Both the board of commissioners and trade unions have endorsed the modernization and growth initiatives, characterizing the airport as a strategic pillar for Suriname’s development and international connectivity.

  • Belize Ranks 7th in Regional Economic Index Amid Debt Recovery Efforts

    Belize Ranks 7th in Regional Economic Index Amid Debt Recovery Efforts

    Belize has secured the seventh position among Central American economies in the Q1 2026 Central America Composite Index (CACI), achieving a score of 2.34. While this places the nation at the bottom of the regional ranking, economic analysts emphasize this reflects historical debt burdens rather than current fiscal trajectory. The report identifies Belize’s substantial public debt—which previously exceeded 100% of GDP—as the primary constraint affecting its comparative standing.

    The landmark 2021 Blue Bond restructuring initiative emerges as a transformative development in Belize’s economic narrative. This innovative financial mechanism successfully reduced external debt obligations, creating substantial fiscal space for the government. The Central America Economic Review indicates this strategic maneuver represents a critical pivot toward sustainable economic management.

    Reduced debt servicing pressures have begun yielding positive medium-term effects, potentially enabling heightened public investment in crucial infrastructure and social programs. Although structural economic challenges persist, the nation demonstrates measurable progress toward macroeconomic stability. The report concludes that while Belize’s current ranking reflects past fiscal difficulties, implemented reforms position the country on an upward trajectory of gradual economic improvement.