Carib Scope

分类： business

  • Melkproductie in vijf jaar tijd sterk gedaald

    Melkproductie in vijf jaar tijd sterk gedaald

    Suriname’s dairy industry is confronting an unprecedented crisis as official data reveals a catastrophic 95% decline in milk production compared to five years ago. Current figures show only 126 active dairy farmers remain, collectively producing just 3,000-4,000 liters daily—a dramatic collapse from the 1,200 farmers who previously generated 6-7 million liters annually.

    The alarming statistics emerged during emergency consultations between Agriculture Minister Mike Noersalim and representatives from both dairy farmers and the Milk Processing Center. Industry delegates presented a comprehensive list of structural challenges threatening the very survival of Suriname’s dairy sector.

    Edmond Blufpand, spokesperson for dairy farmers, highlighted the central issue of unsustainable pricing. The current government procurement rate of SRD 25 per liter has become economically unviable due to soaring costs of animal feed and fuel. Historical requests for price adjustments have gone unaddressed, with previous agreements made without substantive consultation.

    Additional critical concerns include:
    – Land redistribution projects encroaching on dairy farming territories
    – Unfulfilled commitments regarding production support including breeding cattle imports and artificial insemination programs
    – Outdated infrastructure featuring obsolete aluminum milk cans and delayed quality testing
    – Insufficient cold chain transportation and unclear logistics management
    – Critical shortage of refrigeration vehicles for proper milk preservation

    Minister Noersalim acknowledged the severity of the situation, characterizing the agricultural sector as being in a “critical phase.” His proposed solution involves establishing a tripartite consultation and implementation body comprising LVV Ministry representatives, dairy farmers, and processing stakeholders.

    This collaborative entity will develop an action matrix with time-bound initiatives focused on sustainable development. Immediate steps include cataloging active operations and their production capacities, while exploring financing options through the NOFA fund.

    The Ministry is simultaneously revitalizing its fourteen core responsibilities, with particular emphasis on strengthening the Livestock Directorate. Minister Noersalim confirmed concrete agreements with other relevant ministries and outlined plans to reactivate previously dismantled systems.

    “We’re examining every avenue to boost production in the near future,” Noersalim stated. “Beyond imports, we’re revitalizing the Artificial Insemination division with new equipment and training programs. The State Farm is also being reinvigorated as part of this comprehensive approach.”

    Additional proposals under consideration include rapid testing equipment acquisition, replacement of outdated milk containers, establishment of collection centers, and potential breeding cattle imports from Brazil with ministry facilitation. The Milk Processing Center’s fundamental responsibility to purchase, process, and ensure distribution of raw milk was also emphasized during the talks.

  • BCCI Wants “Transparent Consultation” With BTL

    BCCI Wants “Transparent Consultation” With BTL

    The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has intensified its call for greater transparency in the proposed acquisition of telecommunications provider SpeedNet by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). This development follows the government’s recent decision to extend consultation periods after this week’s Cabinet presentation.

    In an official statement released today, the BCCI emphasized that transactions of this magnitude necessitate comprehensive, meaningful, and inclusive consultation processes. The Chamber specifically highlighted the critical need to evaluate potential impacts on market competition dynamics, consumer pricing structures, service quality standards, and the broader Belizean economy.

    The business advocacy organization has formally invited BTL, which holds membership within the Chamber, to present detailed plans to its Executive Council and broader membership base. This initiative aims to provide essential clarity and create opportunities for stakeholders to pose direct questions regarding the proposed merger. “The fundamental purpose of this engagement is to facilitate transparent and well-informed dialogue,” the BCCI statement clarified.

    BTL Chairman Mark Lizarraga has previously contended that the company can efficiently integrate Speednet’s customer base with minimal additional operational costs. This integration, he argues, could potentially protect consumer pricing, preserve employment opportunities, and support the nation’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives.

    Despite these assertions, the Chamber maintains that detailed independent analysis and open public discussion remain imperative before any final decisions are made regarding the acquisition. The BCCI has urged all relevant decision-makers to fulfill their regulatory responsibilities by ensuring a process characterized by complete openness and rigorous economic analysis.

  • Grenville Co-operative Credit Union vacancies

    Grenville Co-operative Credit Union vacancies

    The Grenville Co-operative Credit Union (GCCU) Ltd has announced two executive-level vacancies as part of its organizational strengthening initiative. The financial institution is actively recruiting for both a Credit and Recoveries Manager and an HR Manager position to enhance its operational capabilities and service delivery framework.

    For the Credit and Recoveries Manager role, GCCU requires an experienced financial professional capable of leading departmental operations with emphasis on portfolio quality and delinquency reduction below the 5% industry benchmark. The position demands comprehensive oversight of credit risk management policies, staff leadership, and regulatory compliance. Key responsibilities include managing loan security portfolios, ensuring IFRS compliance for collateral valuation, and maintaining current knowledge of economic trends affecting risk strategies. Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in finance or related field, credit management certification, and minimum five years’ credit union sector experience.

    Simultaneously, the HR Manager position requires a strategic human resources expert to develop and implement comprehensive HR infrastructure. This role encompasses strategic planning, performance management systems, compensation structure development, and organizational culture building. The ideal candidate will possess a master’s degree in HRM or related discipline with five years’ senior-level experience, or equivalent combination of education and practical expertise. International HR certification is considered advantageous.

    Both positions require submission of application materials including cover letter, CV, and professional references to J’S HR Consultancy at the specified email addresses. The Credit and Recoveries Manager application deadline is February 2, 2026, while the HR Manager position closes January 22, 2026, with both deadlines subject to revision at the organization’s discretion.

  • NFA CEO confident Jamaica can surpass record tilapia production

    NFA CEO confident Jamaica can surpass record tilapia production

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s tilapia farming sector is positioned for a dramatic recovery that could eclipse its all-time production records, according to National Fisheries Authority (NFA) CEO Dr. Gavin Bellamy. Despite current output standing at approximately 900 metric tons—a significant drop from the industry’s peak of 7,000 metric tons achieved in 2007—Bellamy asserts that the foundational elements for resurgence are firmly in place.

    Speaking with JIS News following the National Tilapia Farmers’ Consultation opening ceremony at Caymanas Golf and Polo Resort in St. Catherine, Bellamy outlined the comprehensive assets supporting this optimistic outlook. “Currently in Jamaica, we possess the capability, the pond infrastructure, the technical expertise, and the operational capacity to exceed that 7,000 metric ton benchmark through collaborative effort,” Bellamy stated, emphasizing the necessity of unified support from government bodies, the NFA, agricultural producers, and industry stakeholders.

    The CEO attributed the previous production decline to the dissolution of a robust public-private partnership model that previously propelled the industry. This system, orchestrated by a major corporate entity, provided satellite farms with critical resources including juvenile fish (fry) and feeding supplies, enabling farmers to concentrate on growth and harvesting operations. “When that structure dissolved, individual operators were forced to assume additional responsibilities, leading many to exit the business entirely,” Bellamy explained.

    Despite these challenges, Bellamy reported encouraging signs of renewal with new farmers entering the sector. The NFA, in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, has identified strategic pathways to rebuild tilapia stocks and ultimately surpass previous production records. Key initiatives include expanding fry production capabilities, improving animal husbandry practices, enhancing water access in specific regions, and conducting extensive extension services to support business and management development among farming operations.

    Additionally, Bellamy highlighted the NFA’s development of a comprehensive marketing strategy designed to ensure farmers receive adequate financial returns on their investments. The recent consultation forum served as a critical platform for identifying precise resource requirements and support mechanisms necessary to not only match but exceed the industry’s historical production achievements.

  • Energy Chamber announces finalists for Innovation & Technology Challenge 2026

    Energy Chamber announces finalists for Innovation & Technology Challenge 2026

    The Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago has revealed the five pioneering finalists selected for its prestigious 2026 Innovation & Technology Challenge, setting the stage for a groundbreaking showcase during the upcoming TT Energy Conference on January 27. These cutting-edge projects represent the forefront of sustainable technological advancement within the Caribbean energy sector.

    An expert evaluation committee comprising Emerson John Charles (Chair of the Innovation Association of TT), Julian Henry (Director of Institutional Advancement at University of the West Indies), and consultant Crispin Chatar meticulously assessed twelve submissions before selecting the top five innovations. The finalists will present their revolutionary projects to conference delegates—including energy executives and industry specialists—who will determine the ultimate winner through live voting.

    The distinguished finalists include:

    Vetiver TT Ecological Engineering Solutions Ltd has developed an advanced wastewater treatment system specifically engineered for Caribbean industrial applications. This innovative solution combines constructed wetlands with specialized microbial inoculants to address tropical leachate, heavy metals, and hydrocarbons prevalent in Trinidad’s industrial sites.

    Blewcoast’s BlewLedger represents a breakthrough in emissions management—an audit-grade GHG platform tailored for Caribbean requirements. This comprehensive system integrates global scientific standards with regional specificities, providing unprecedented accuracy in emissions tracking and sustainability management.

    Sky Clarity Limited’s PM Pilot introduces a revolutionary predictive maintenance platform designed to eliminate unplanned downtime in energy facilities. Unlike conventional systems requiring constant connectivity, this solution operates effectively in remote locations, delivering immediate, plain-English insights from operational data.

    Caribbean Gas Chemical Limited has implemented two operational innovations achieving remarkable emissions reductions. Their compressor bypass strategy reduces electricity consumption by 20,000 MWh annually (10,000 tCO2e), while boiler optimization cuts natural gas usage by 4,000 kNm3 yearly (8,500 tCO2e).

    Navin Seeterram & Associates’ Smart Mountain project leverages AI, blockchain, and digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification technology to create decarbonization pathways. This platform enables compliance with international carbon mechanisms while facilitating carbon finance opportunities for capital-constrained projects.

    Dr. Kennedy Swaratsingh, Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development, will present the award to the winning project. Historically, participants in this challenge have gained significant international recognition, highlighting the program’s role in fostering innovation within Trinidad and Tobago’s energy landscape.

  • Brazilian agricultural research chief highlights role of regional institute in speeding up innovation

    Brazilian agricultural research chief highlights role of regional institute in speeding up innovation

    Brazil’s top agricultural research official has emphasized the pivotal role of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) in bridging the technological gap for rural producers throughout the Western Hemisphere. Silvia Massruhá, President of Brazil’s Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), articulated this vision during the inauguration ceremony of agronomist Muhammad Ibrahim as IICA’s new Director General in San José.

    Addressing senior agricultural officials from over 30 countries and international organization representatives, Massruhá highlighted Ibrahim’s exceptional qualifications for his 2026–2030 term. With more than 35 years of professional experience, the newly appointed director brings strategic expertise in streamlining the transfer of research-based technologies to agricultural communities.

    Massruhá identified the persistent challenge research institutions face in ensuring rapid technology adoption among farmers. ‘We frequently develop technologies that need to be rolled out more rapidly,’ she noted, expressing confidence that Ibrahim’s background in research and innovation would effectively address this implementation gap.

    The Embrapa president underscored the critical importance of digital technologies in navigating global agriculture’s transformation toward sustainable production, enhanced nutrition, and increased food system transparency. She specifically cited blockchain technology as a transformative tool for improving traceability and building trust throughout agricultural supply chains.

    Emphasizing the need for greater socio-economic and digital inclusion, Massruhá pointed to the particular challenges faced by small- and medium-scale producers who encounter significant investment barriers. She positioned IICA as essential in supporting institutions through technology adoption initiatives, specialized training programs, and the development of innovative business models for rural associations and cooperatives.

    Brazil committed to strengthening its collaboration with IICA to facilitate international sharing of agricultural technologies developed over the past five decades—advancements that have transformed the nation into a global agricultural powerhouse and major food exporter. Massruhá concluded with strong expectations for enhanced cooperation under Ibrahim’s leadership.

  • Antigua Cruise Port Invites Local Entrepreneurs to Join Upland Development Project

    Antigua Cruise Port Invites Local Entrepreneurs to Join Upland Development Project

    Antigua Cruise Port has launched a strategic initiative to integrate local business talent into the next stage of its Upland Development Project. The port management is formally soliciting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from entrepreneurs and artisans to establish retail outlets and immersive visitor experiences within the terminal’s new development zone.

    This ambitious project is fundamentally designed to celebrate the distinct cultural identity of Antigua and Barbuda. The curation process will prioritize enterprises that highlight locally manufactured goods, authentic artisan brands, and unique experiences deeply rooted in national heritage. The envisioned commercial space will feature a dynamic blend of traditional bazaar-style kiosks and modern, purpose-built retail areas, all engineered to significantly enrich the cruise tourist’s journey.

    Antigua Cruise Port’s selection criteria will emphasize businesses that champion local craftsmanship, fashion innovation, and creative expression. Additional preference will be accorded to ventures that demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainable practices, wellness-oriented services, and active community involvement.

    Successful applicants will gain a formidable business advantage: direct access to a continuous stream of international visitors within a high-traffic cruise terminal environment. The port offers a professionally managed retail ecosystem, providing entrepreneurs with unparalleled opportunities for brand exposure and direct customer engagement with a global clientele arriving via sea voyages.

    In an official communiqué, the port operator framed this call for EOIs as a cornerstone of a broader vision focused on inclusive economic growth and collaborative partnership. This initiative encourages local businesses to actively participate in scripting the future narrative of the nation’s evolving cruise tourism sector. The submission deadline for interested parties is set for January 31, 2026.

  • Cabo Rojo’s $673M Compliance Trap: How Ley 47‑25 Forces Dominican Innovation

    Cabo Rojo’s $673M Compliance Trap: How Ley 47‑25 Forces Dominican Innovation

    The Dominican Republic’s entrepreneurial landscape faces a transformative inflection point with the implementation of Ley 47‑25, the new Public Procurement Law effective January 2026. This legislative overhaul replaces the previous Law 340‑06, moving beyond procedural adjustments to mandate that 30% of all government contracts—amounting to approximately $673 million from the $2.245 billion Pro-Pedernales Trust—must be allocated to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MIPYMEs).

    While superficially appearing as a compliance requirement, this mandate represents a fundamental structural shift with severe operational implications. The southern region, particularly Cabo Rojo, stands at a critical crossroads where this policy could either catalyze economic innovation or trigger a coordination crisis. The law imposes stringent penalties for non-compliance, including fines ranging from 500 to 5,000 monthly public sector minimum wages and potential permanent closure of establishments for severe violations. Notably, Article 20 criminalizes collusion with prison sentences of 2–5 years, effectively eliminating shell company schemes and overlapping consortiums previously used to secure contracts.

    The successful implementation hinges on developing execution architecture capable of rapidly scaling hundreds of SMEs to meet contracting modalities such as the Asociación para la Innovación partnership model. This creates both unprecedented opportunity and substantial risk—without proper operational frameworks, projects face delays, quality compromises, and reputational damage.

    Strategic analysts emphasize that Cabo Rojo must evolve beyond traditional tourism development to become an exportable intellectual property engine, leveraging the global Dominican diaspora and digital nomad talent pool. Dominican FinTech, CleanTech, SaaS, and IP ventures now have a historic opportunity to demonstrate operational readiness and transform regulatory mandates into market advantages. The ultimate success of this initiative will depend on converting policy requirements into predictable, scalable outcomes that position the Dominican Republic as a competitive player in global innovation markets.

  • Here’s How to Apply for Airbnb Investment Properties at Shell Beach

    Here’s How to Apply for Airbnb Investment Properties at Shell Beach

    National Assets Management Company Limited (NAMCO), registered under Company No. C 88/16, has formally announced a call for expressions of interest regarding a significant investment opportunity. The initiative centers on the acquisition and development of properties designated for Airbnb operations within the Shell Beach Development Project.

    Prospective investors and corporate entities are now invited to submit detailed proposals for consideration. All submissions must be directed to the office of The Corporate Secretary at NAMCO. The company has set a definitive deadline of January 30, 2026, for the receipt of all applications.

    To be considered, each proposal must include a comprehensive yet concise overview of the intended development project. Furthermore, applicants are required to disclose the estimated capital readily available for two primary phases: the initial acquisition of land plots and the subsequent construction of purpose-built Airbnb hospitality facilities. This process is designed to identify serious partners with the financial capacity and strategic vision to contribute to the Shell Beach development.

  • Antigua Has Become a Go-to Escape for the Wealthy—Including Jeff Bezos

    Antigua Has Become a Go-to Escape for the Wealthy—Including Jeff Bezos

    The Caribbean nation of Antigua, long celebrated for its 365 pristine beaches, is now emerging as a premier destination for luxury property investment. This shift is positioning the island as an exclusive, low-density alternative to more commercialized Caribbean hotspots, with its real estate market experiencing unprecedented growth.

    High-end developments, particularly in the coveted Jolly Harbour area on the western coast, are driving a significant transformation of formerly mid-market regions into upscale residential enclaves. Industry experts identify three primary catalysts for this surge: exceptional yachting accessibility, an unparalleled tropical lifestyle, and the nation’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. This program grants qualifying investors a pathway to citizenship through property acquisition.

    Post-pandemic interest from North American buyers, specifically from the United States and Canada, has intensified dramatically. A key financial incentive is the nation’s favorable tax structure, which includes no income tax, no capital gains tax, and no wealth tax.

    After a period of constrained construction, new inventory is finally entering the market. However, real estate agents project that despite this increased supply, the potent combination of high demand and limited premium land will continue to exert upward pressure on property values, signaling a sustained bullish market.