Carib Scope

分类： business

  • Grenada to enforce Madrid Protocol as of March 2026

    Grenada to enforce Madrid Protocol as of March 2026

    Grenada has officially become the 116th member of the Madrid System for international trademark registration, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s intellectual property landscape. The Madrid Protocol will take effect in Grenada on March 15, 2026, following the government’s deposition of its accession instrument approximately three months prior.

    This accession positions Grenada as the tenth Latin American and Caribbean nation to join this global framework, which the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) describes as “a practical and efficient solution for protecting trademarks worldwide.” The move significantly strengthens the international trademark ecosystem while providing Grenadian businesses with streamlined access to global markets.

    From the implementation date onward, Grenadian enterprises and entrepreneurs who have registered trademarks through the Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office (CAIPO) will gain the ability to seek trademark protection across all 131 Madrid System member jurisdictions through a single application process. This streamlined approach requires submitting documentation in English and paying fees exclusively in Swiss francs, eliminating the need for multiple applications in different jurisdictions.

    Concurrently, trademark holders from other member countries will be able to designate Grenada in their international applications, while existing international registration holders can extend their protection to include the Caribbean nation. This reciprocal arrangement promises to enhance Grenada’s attractiveness for international business and investment.

    In preparation for this significant transition, WIPO dispatched two high-level experts to Grenada in February 2025 to conduct stakeholder consultations. These sessions aimed to educate businesses and legal professionals about the implications and procedures of the Madrid Protocol ahead of its implementation.

    During the 2026 budget debate, Senator Claudette Joseph confirmed that Grenada formally became a signatory to the Madrid Protocol on December 10, 2025, with an initial target implementation date of April 1, 2026. The actual implementation date of March 15, 2026, represents a slight adjustment from this original timeline.

  • IDB launches new Barbados strategy to drive growth, resilience

    IDB launches new Barbados strategy to drive growth, resilience

    The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) has formally initiated a comprehensive five-year strategic framework for Barbados, designed to propel economic advancement while simultaneously fortifying social and climate resilience. The 2025–2030 strategy, officially endorsed in May 2025, was developed following rigorous economic analysis led by Cloe Ortiz de Mendivil, the IDB’s Country Economist for Barbados and The Bahamas.

    Unveiled at a stakeholder briefing held at the Bank’s Oistins offices, the strategy is structured around three foundational pillars. The first is dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth, while the subsequent two focus on building social resilience and climate-related resilience. Carina Cockburn, IDB Country Representative for Barbados, emphasized the interdependence of these goals, stating that resilience, while necessary, is not by itself sufficient for achieving broader economic development objectives.

    In a significant departure from conventional presentation formats, the IDB employed an innovative dissemination approach to enhance public accessibility. The launch event featured an interactive session led by Neil Waithe and the Leggo Theatre Company, who utilized improvisational performance to translate complex policy terminology into engaging and relatable messaging for a diverse audience.

    Concurrently, the IDB introduced the BOLD Catalyst Board, an 18-member civil society advisory body operational across all IDB member countries. This board will provide critical feedback during the project design phase, ensuring initiatives avoid harmful practices and adequately incorporate stakeholder perspectives. The board will also assist in information dissemination and help maintain alignment with local needs throughout the implementation process.

    Cross-cutting themes of innovation, diversity, and institutional strengthening will be mainstreamed across all initiatives. Specific programs already in development include an Enhanced Credit Guarantee Fund with the Central Bank under the economic growth pillar, and a pipeline replacement project aimed at securing Barbados’ potable water supply as part of climate resilience efforts.

    Beyond financial lending, the IDB’s engagement encompasses substantial technical cooperation, providing expertise, analytical support, and advisory services to assist Barbadian policymakers. Reflecting on the enduring partnership, Kay McConney, Minister of Economic Affairs and Investment, highlighted that the relationship between the Government of Barbados and the IDB Group remains rooted in shared vision, mutual trust, and open communication.

  • REOI: Solar for All Programme

    REOI: Solar for All Programme

    The Grenadian government has formally initiated its ambitious Solar for All Programme through the Ministry of Climate Resilience, the Environment and Renewable Energy (MCRERE). This national program represents a strategic effort to democratize access to affordable, reliable, and clean energy solutions, with particular emphasis on supporting vulnerable households and small-scale agro-processors currently experiencing energy insecurity.

    The ministry has issued a comprehensive Request for Expressions of Interest (EOI) targeting professionally established solar photovoltaic installation companies. This solicitation aims to create a pre-qualified roster of competent firms that may subsequently be invited to submit detailed proposals or competitive quotations for specific installation projects under the program’s framework.

    Successful contractors will be responsible for delivering end-to-end solar solutions, including comprehensive site assessments, customized system design, and complete installation services. The technical scope encompasses grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid solar PV systems within the 1kWp to 6kWp capacity range. Additional responsibilities include executing all necessary electrical works, installing mounting structures, and ensuring full system commissioning. Contractors must coordinate with Grenlec (Grenada Electricity Services) and the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission for necessary inspections and grid interconnection procedures where applicable.

    The eligibility criteria establish rigorous standards for prospective applicants. Companies must maintain legal registration in Grenada, possess valid National Insurance Scheme certification, and demonstrate verifiable experience in solar PV installations over the past five years. Additional requirements include employing adequately trained and certified technical personnel, maintaining comprehensive liability insurance coverage, and exhibiting familiarity with local regulatory requirements for permits and interconnections.

    Interested firms must submit concise Expressions of Interest through the government’s E-Procurement portal before the strict deadline of 4:00 PM on Friday, January 30. The submission package, not exceeding 15 pages excluding annexes, should comprehensively address the company’s profile, relevant experience, technical capabilities, and organizational capacity. The government explicitly reserves the right to accept or reject any submissions, annul the process, or modify the program scope without incurring liability.

    This initiative marks a significant advancement in Grenada’s renewable energy transition, potentially establishing a new benchmark for sustainable energy access in the Eastern Caribbean region.

  • PM Briceño Says Board Must Do What’s in BTL’s Best Interest

    PM Briceño Says Board Must Do What’s in BTL’s Best Interest

    BELIZE CITY – Prime Minister John Briceño has articulated a clear division of responsibilities regarding Belize Telemedia Limited’s controversial bid to acquire SpeedNet. In statements made to News 5 on January 15, 2026, the Prime Minister emphasized that while the government-owned telecom giant must be free to pursue its commercial interests, the state’s duty is to safeguard consumer protections.

    The proposed consolidation has ignited significant opposition from various sectors of Belizean society. Addressing this criticism, PM Briceño clarified the governance structure, noting that BTL is owned by both the government and the Social Security Board. He stressed that the company’s board members bear a fiduciary responsibility to act in BTL’s best commercial interests, independent of political pressure. ‘They need to do what they believe is in their best interest… If they believe the decision BTL is making is a good one, they should support it. If it’s a bad one, they should say no,’ Briceño stated.

    To mitigate concerns over potential market monopolization and consumer impact, the government is preparing proactive regulatory measures. Briceño identified the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) as the central body for oversight. A Statutory Instrument (SI) is being drafted to freeze all telecommunications rates for a twelve-month period, effectively pausing any changes pending the development of a robust regulatory framework for the newly consolidated market. ‘An SI is simply just to put things on hold, on pause, nothing will happen, until you know how best to be able to regulate the industry,’ the Prime Minister explained.

    Briceño defended the acquisition as part of a normal global business trend, drawing parallels to frequent corporate consolidations in markets like the United States. He asserted that such mergers are manageable under effective regulation. BTL has already initiated stakeholder consultations with key national bodies, including the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Business Bureau, with a comprehensive briefing scheduled for the Cabinet in the coming week.

  • Government seeks to raise US$1 billion

    Government seeks to raise US$1 billion

    The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has formally announced its intention to raise US$1 billion through an international bond issuance, according to Legal Notice 9 of 2026 published on January 13th. The financial maneuver, authorized by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo who signed the document on January 12th, represents a significant move in the country’s sovereign debt strategy.

    The issuance will involve notes offered exclusively to qualified institutional buyers across global markets, including both international and United States-based investors. To facilitate this substantial transaction, the government has engaged two of Wall Street’s most prominent financial institutions: JP Morgan Securities LLC and Bank of America Securities Inc. These firms have been appointed as joint lead managers and arrangers, responsible for structuring and marketing the debt offering.

    The transaction is being executed under Section Six of Trinidad and Tobago’s External Loans Act, which grants the Finance Minister authority to provide specific tax exemptions. Notably, the order exempts all payments related to principal, interest, and associated debt charges from both taxation and exchange control restrictions. This provision enhances the attractiveness of the notes to international investors by ensuring streamlined cross-border payments and maximizing returns.

    This strategic financial initiative demonstrates Trinidad and Tobago’s proactive approach to accessing global capital markets while implementing measures to optimize the terms of its sovereign borrowing. The involvement of major international financial institutions underscores the credibility of the offering in the global financial community.

  • AG ditches civil suit on CL Financial crash: Billion$ wasted in legal fees

    AG ditches civil suit on CL Financial crash: Billion$ wasted in legal fees

    In a dramatic parliamentary address on January 16, Attorney General John Jeremie revealed the staggering financial aftermath of the CL Financial collapse, announcing his decision to terminate all civil proceedings related to the case. The revelation came as Jeremie presented the long-suppressed Sir Anthony Colman report detailing the failure of the financial conglomerate and its subsidiaries.

    Jeremie disclosed that between $3 billion to $4 billion had been expended on legal fees alone since the corporation’s collapse 17 years ago, with virtually nothing to show for this massive expenditure. The Attorney General characterized the investigation as fundamentally inadequate, noting that only three police officers had been assigned to what he described as “the largest financial fraud in this country’s history.”

    “This is a joke of an investigation,” Jeremie declared before the House of Representatives. “What do I do? Well, as guardian of the public interest and having consulted with the Honourable Prime Minister, I have to say that we are not able to continue to spend hard resources, government resources.”

    The Attorney General expressed particular frustration with the pattern of payments to legal professionals, noting that nearly $400 million had been paid to accounting firm Deloitte and Touche alone—despite his office never having engaged their services. He pointedly observed that these funds primarily benefited “persons who are sometimes golfers but who are always very wealthy,” while ordinary citizens received no tangible benefits.

    Jeremie traced the origins of the crisis to “unconscionable action” by previous administrations, noting that the initial government bailout had consumed $28 billion, with the additional billions in legal fees representing further financial hemorrhage. The Colman report itself cost approximately $150 million to produce yet had “never seen the light of day” until its presentation to Parliament.

    The comprehensive report contains extensive evidence including tens of millions of emails, financial records, forensic analyses of complex cross-border transactions, 6,414 pieces of electronic evidence, and 1,650 boxes of hard-copy documentation. Despite this voluminous evidence and explicit recommendations to involve law enforcement, not a single individual has faced criminal charges related to the collapse.

    Jeremie’s decision to discontinue civil action represents a pragmatic approach to limiting further financial losses, though he acknowledged the state might need to pay “reasonable costs” to formally exit these proceedings.

  • NIHERST, ILO market study shows prospects for 5 emerging sectors

    NIHERST, ILO market study shows prospects for 5 emerging sectors

    A comprehensive labor market analysis targeting five pivotal emerging sectors in Trinidad and Tobago has been unveiled, marking a significant stride toward reshaping the nation’s economic landscape. The National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (NIHERST), in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), conducted this groundbreaking research to address critical workforce development needs.

    The study, titled “Assessment of 21st Century Skills Across Emerging Sectors,” meticulously examines workforce requirements within five industries deemed essential for national progress: maritime operations, aviation services, tourism development, software design and applications, and agro-processing technologies. This collaborative initiative represents a strategic effort to bridge the gap between educational preparation and market demands.

    According to official statements released on January 16, the research provides unprecedented insights into current and anticipated STEM workforce requirements. The findings offer actionable intelligence for crafting targeted policies and programs designed to enhance both workforce readiness and industrial competitiveness. Key objectives include identifying skill mismatches, quantifying demand for STEM graduates, and improving alignment between educational offerings and labor market requirements.

    The recently launched reports serve as a vital resource for policymakers, educational specialists, industry leaders, and stakeholders committed to developing Trinidad and Tobago’s STEM workforce. The data will inform decisions regarding scholarship allocations, incentive programs, and curricular adjustments at public universities to ensure programs align with emerging sector needs.

    Dr. Joni Musabayana, Director of the ILO Caribbean Decent Work Team, emphasized the organization’s commitment to providing tangible technical assistance: “This collaboration demonstrates our dedication to helping countries generate essential data for informed skills development decisions. By strengthening national capacity to anticipate future skills needs, we support Trinidad and Tobago’s efforts to diversify its economy and enhance productivity.”

    Julie David, Acting President of NIHERST, highlighted the critical importance of research-informed planning: “These sectors possess global competitive potential and can meaningfully contribute to economic growth. However, we must strengthen our STEM capabilities while emphasizing 21st-century skills including digital literacy, problem-solving, critical thinking, and adaptability. The identified skill mismatches provide invaluable insights for policymakers, academics, and businesses making evidence-based decisions.”

    David characterized the initiative as “an invitation to work across institutions and sectors to position Trinidad and Tobago as a hub of talent, creativity, and sustainable enterprise.” Digital copies of the complete reports are accessible through NIHERST’s official channels.

  • different secures realtor license, aims to unlock investment properties across Caribbean

    different secures realtor license, aims to unlock investment properties across Caribbean

    KINGSTON, JAMAICA – different Capital, an innovative real estate brokerage firm headquartered in Kingston, has achieved a significant regulatory milestone by obtaining its official realtor license. This authorization enables the company to advance its pioneering business model designed to democratize access to premium commercial real estate investments across the Caribbean region.

    The announcement was formally made through a video statement by Gary Matalon, Deputy CEO of different Capital, who declared, “We’ve got it, it’s different, it’s official. Our mission is to curate and present the most compelling real estate investment opportunities throughout the Caribbean to our investors.”

    Co-established by Matalon and seasoned financier Christopher Williams, different Capital operates on a fractional ownership principle. This model permits retail investors to acquire shares in individual commercial properties rather than requiring full asset purchases. The recently secured brokerage license was a crucial prerequisite for the company’s planned US$6 million capital raise. These funds are earmarked for the acquisition of a commercial plaza, which the firm intends to transform into a standalone public entity. This structure will enable fractionalization of the property into affordable shares for small-scale investors.

    A central component of different Capital’s strategy involves targeting the Caribbean diaspora, with ambitions to allocate up to 50% of its investment inventory to this demographic. Matalon outlined expansion plans, stating, “We are strategically building our realtor network in key international hubs including Broward County, Dade County, Atlanta, New York, London, Birmingham, and Canadian cities like Toronto. Investors should prepare for exceptional opportunities.”

    Christopher Williams recently addressed investment prospects at a Miami conference, advocating for real estate as a superior inflation hedge with attractive returns. He emphasized that real estate exhibits the lowest price volatility among asset classes when measured by standard deviation. “Our comprehensive analysis across asset categories consistently identifies real estate as the most compelling sector for serious investment consideration,” Williams asserted.

    He further elaborated that contemporary real estate participation extends beyond traditional property ownership, noting that consortium-based investments enable portfolio diversification without leveraging personal capital. This approach provides exposure to multiple properties while mitigating individual risk, making institutional-grade investments accessible to retail participants.

  • Agostini opens hybrid Superpharm/Presto in South Park

    Agostini opens hybrid Superpharm/Presto in South Park

    Agostini Ltd, the parent company of both SuperPharm and Presto, has unveiled a groundbreaking retail concept with the inauguration of its 11th SuperPharm branch at South Park on January 15. This innovative establishment represents Trinidad’s first hybrid store merging pharmaceutical services with fresh food retail under one roof.

    The grand opening ceremony featured distinguished attendees including San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris, Presto’s Business Development Director Jean-Luc Moutte, Store Manager Jolene Wallace, Senior Pharmacist Mathew Ragoonanan, SuperPharm CEO Glenn Maharaj, and event host Michelle Perryman.

    CEO Glenn Maharaj characterized the SuperPharm-Presto Hybrid Experience as a strategically designed ‘store within a store’ concept that seamlessly integrates pharmacy services, convenience shopping, and fresh food offerings. “This innovative format reflects our conviction that wellness encompasses medication, professional advice, nutrition, life balance, and convenience—all supported by advanced technology, robust systems, and genuine human care,” Maharaj stated.

    The executive emphasized that Presto’s emphasis on quick, accessible, fresh local produce perfectly complements SuperPharm’s healthcare mission. This hybrid model positions the company for future growth while maintaining adaptability to evolving consumer needs without compromising established trust and quality standards.

    Celebrating over two decades of operation since its 2005 founding, SuperPharm has consistently prioritized healthcare accessibility, affordability, and convenience. Maharaj recalled the company’s pioneering approach: “From our inception, we implemented extended hours and drive-thru services as deliberate commitments to convenience—not as afterthoughts. We designed our services for shift workers, families, seniors, and anyone requiring prompt, safe, and efficient healthcare solutions.”

    The company maintains its dedication to affordability through initiatives like Seniors Day, offering 10% discounts to customers over 60, and the My Day Super Cards program providing similar discounts every Friday for individuals managing chronic conditions. While embracing technological advancements including e-commerce platforms and sophisticated operating systems, Maharaj affirmed that the company’s fundamental standards of excellence remain unchanged throughout its evolution.

  • Market Bag: Mixed basket for food prices in Linstead

    Market Bag: Mixed basket for food prices in Linstead

    The Linstead Market in St. Catherine, Jamaica, presented consumers with contrasting price movements this weekend, creating a complex shopping landscape for household staples. A detailed market analysis reveals significant price reductions for several key vegetables, while other produce items experienced notable increases.

    Tomatoes emerged as the most dramatically reduced item, selling at approximately $400 per pound—a substantial decrease from the $600 per pound recorded at Kingston’s Coronation Market just one week prior. Carrots also saw a favorable dip in price, available for as low as $100 per pound, marking a $50 reduction from the previous week. Cabbage completed the trio of declining prices, now fetching $150 per pound, which represents a $100 savings for consumers compared to last weekend’s rates in Kingston.

    Conversely, the market witnessed upward price pressure on other essential ingredients. Escallion prices rose to $300 per pound, while lettuce reached $1,000 per pound. Scotch bonnet peppers, a staple in Jamaican cuisine, climbed to $800 per pound, presenting budgetary challenges for consumers seeking these particular items.

    The latest episode of ‘Market Bag,’ hosted by Carlysia Ramdeen, featured special guest Cleo Jones, a young poultry farmer, potentially offering insights into broader agricultural trends affecting market prices across the region. The program promises to deliver valuable perspectives on Jamaica’s food distribution networks and pricing mechanisms.