Carib Scope

分类： business

  • CAF’s Economic Forum brought together more than 6,500 leaders from 70 countries in the largest regional meeting in recent years

    CAF’s Economic Forum brought together more than 6,500 leaders from 70 countries in the largest regional meeting in recent years

    Panama City emerged as the definitive hub for Latin American economic discourse on January 28-29, 2026, hosting an unprecedented gathering of regional leadership. The International Economic Forum – Latin America and the Caribbean 2026, orchestrated by CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean in collaboration with the Panamanian government, achieved historic participation metrics with over 6,500 delegates representing 70 nations.

    The summit’s significance was underscored by the attendance of seven sitting heads of state, including Panama’s José Raúl Mulino, Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Bolivia’s Rodrigo Paz, Colombia’s Gustavo Petro, Ecuador’s Daniel Noboa, Guatemala’s Bernardo Arévalo, alongside Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Chile’s President-Elect José Antonio Kast. This convergence of leadership represented the most substantial regional assembly in recent years.

    CAF Executive President Sergio Díaz-Granados emphasized the forum’s transformative potential, stating, ‘This gathering represents the pinnacle of regional mobilization and alliance-building. Our deliberations will generate actionable insights to translate conceptual frameworks into tangible improvements for citizens across Latin America and the Caribbean.’ He further articulated CAF’s evolving role beyond traditional financing: ‘We are building bridges and creating dialogue platforms to amplify the region’s collective voice amidst global challenges.’

    The comprehensive agenda featured 50 expert panels addressing critical development themes including regional integration strategies, artificial intelligence implementation, energy transition pathways, innovative financing mechanisms, and sustainable development practices. These discussions featured 250 distinguished panelists and attracted over 400,000 virtual participants through digital platforms.

    Notable intellectual contributions came from Nobel Economics laureates James Robinson and Philippe Aghion, who analyzed institutional frameworks for growth innovation, while futurist Michio Kaku provided visionary perspectives on AI’s economic implications.

    The forum transcended theoretical discourse through concrete diplomatic engagement, facilitating more than 400 bilateral meetings between governmental representatives, business leaders, and multilateral organizations. CAF’s proprietary networking technology enabled an additional 1,100 scheduled meetings, creating unprecedented opportunities for investment and cooperation.

    This monumental event, supported by organizations including the Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom, COX, Copa Airlines and Coca-Cola, demonstrated Latin America’s determined pursuit of coordinated action and enhanced global positioning within the evolving international economic architecture.

  • MCP heropent winkel en breidt assortiment verder uit

    MCP heropent winkel en breidt assortiment verder uit

    In a significant move marking its 65th anniversary, Suriname’s state-owned dairy enterprise Melkcentrale N.V. (MCP) has officially reopened its flagship store on Van Idsingastraat, signaling a new chapter of modernization and territorial expansion. The reopening ceremony, presided over by Director Monché Atompai, represents the company’s strategic pivot toward product innovation and operational growth.

    The newly revitalized store, previously operated by third-party tenants, has been brought back under MCP’s direct management. Customers can now access the complete range of MCP products, including offerings from subsidiary companies MCP Agro (fruit products) and MCP Aqua (bottled drinking water).

    Beginning February 9th, MCP will introduce new product lines developed through collaborations with local fruit farmers. The company is concurrently engaging with the Ministry of Regional Development to integrate interior region farmers into its supply chain, promoting inclusive economic participation.

    Enhancing customer convenience, MCP has implemented telephone and digital ordering systems allowing consumers to place orders for subsequent pickup. This modernization effort aligns with the company’s broader service improvement initiatives.

    Looking toward future growth, Director Atompai revealed ambitious expansion plans targeting multiple districts including Nickerie, Marowijne, and interior regions such as Tapanahony and Atjoni. These developments represent both financial and geographical scaling for the state enterprise.

    The comprehensive revitalization strategy underscores MCP’s commitment to local production enhancement, sustainable growth, and improved societal service delivery through modernized retail operations and expanded territorial presence.

  • Espat Rejects Claims BTL Merger Isn’t Monopoly

    Espat Rejects Claims BTL Merger Isn’t Monopoly

    A significant divergence of perspectives has emerged within Belize’s Cabinet regarding the proposed merger between telecommunications giants BTL and Speednet. Minister of Infrastructure Development and Housing Julius Espat has publicly challenged assertions from his cabinet colleague that the consolidation would not establish a monopoly.

    Public Utilities Minister Michel Chebat recently contended that with over twenty internet service providers operating nationally, the merger would not create monopolistic conditions. Espat has firmly rejected this interpretation, presenting a contrasting analysis focused on local market dynamics.

    ‘Locally yes, you can’t run away from that concept,’ Espat stated, addressing the fundamental disagreement. ‘You are arguing about two separate things. On the international level you won’t have a monopoly. But at a local level you do.’

    The Infrastructure Minister elaborated on consumer concerns, acknowledging legitimate fears that government-dominated telecommunications could potentially target critics. He emphasized the necessity of protective legislation should the merger proceed, while maintaining that competition ultimately serves consumer interests best.

    Espat highlighted the critical importance of consumer choice: ‘If BTL gave me bad service but if the price alright I will consider to go to the guy that gave me a better service. You have an option. With what is happening, you won’t have an option. And I believe that option is always a good thing.’

    Despite characterizing his position as ‘just a personal opinion,’ Espat stressed the value of comprehensive consultation, noting that while BTL representatives are ‘convinced that it is the best thing since toast bread,’ external stakeholders remain apprehensive about the proposed changes.

    The minister concluded that meaningful public dialogue remains essential before any final determination is made regarding the controversial telecommunications merger.

  • Request for Proposals (RFP) for Engineering Consulting Services for Expansion of Needsmust Power Plant

    Request for Proposals (RFP) for Engineering Consulting Services for Expansion of Needsmust Power Plant

    The St. Kitts Electricity Company (SKELEC) has formally initiated a competitive bidding process for specialized engineering consulting services to support the major expansion of its Needsmust Power Plant. In an official procurement notice dated February 3, 2026, the utility’s Project Implementation Unit (PIU) announced it is seeking qualified consultancy firms to submit proposals for this critical infrastructure project.

    The expansion initiative represents a significant investment in the nation’s energy infrastructure, aiming to enhance power generation capacity and reliability across the federation. Interested consulting firms with proven expertise in power plant engineering and expansion projects must submit their proposals through specified channels, including physical submissions to the PIU office on Central Street in Basseterre or via email to the dedicated project address: piu@hybridpowerplant.skelec.kn.

    Comprehensive documentation detailing the technical requirements, submission guidelines, and evaluation criteria for this Request for Proposals is available through the official procurement notice published on SKELEC’s website. The detailed specifications outline the scope of services required and the qualification standards that prospective bidders must meet to be considered for this high-value consultancy contract.

    This procurement process follows international competitive bidding standards, ensuring transparency and equal opportunity for qualified engineering consultants from around the world to participate in shaping St. Kitts’ energy future.

  • NTUCB Slams ‘Silence’ on Speednet Deal

    NTUCB Slams ‘Silence’ on Speednet Deal

    BELIZE CITY – A significant confrontation is brewing between Belize’s labor movement and government institutions over a controversial telecommunications acquisition. The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has issued a strongly worded condemnation of the proposed Speednet purchase, accusing the Social Security Board (SSB) of maintaining a “deafening silence” regarding the transaction’s details.

    The labor organization asserts that the SSB, which already maintains a substantial 34% stake in Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), bears direct legal responsibility for safeguarding worker contributions. Despite this fiduciary duty, the NTUCB claims the Board has failed to provide adequate disclosure or engage in meaningful consultation with the contributors whose funds are potentially at risk.

    While stopping short of formally demanding resignations, the union’s statement reflects growing internal pressure for SSB Board Chairman Chandra Nisbet-Cansino to step down. Critics within the labor movement have particularly questioned her recent resignation from BTL’s Board of Directors ahead of a crucial meeting concerning the acquisition, characterizing the move as an abdication of responsibility during a pivotal moment.

    The NTUCB has now issued a formal demand for the SSB to publicly oppose the Speednet acquisition until comprehensive due diligence is completed and contributor concerns are thoroughly addressed. The brewing controversy has garnered additional support, with the Belize Communications Workers for Justice announcing their participation in planned demonstrations.

    The United Democratic Party has aligned with labor groups in organizing protests scheduled for Wednesday outside the SSB headquarters. Political observers suggest that the four social partner senators may use this platform to articulate a forceful public position on the escalating dispute.

  • Trade organizations deny chicken and eggs shortage

    Trade organizations deny chicken and eggs shortage

    SANTO DOMINGO – Key retail trade organizations in the Dominican Republic have publicly endorsed Agriculture Minister Francisco Oliverio Espaillat, refuting circulating allegations about shortages and unjustified price surges in chicken and egg products. The unified stance emerged from a high-level meeting convened on Monday, as detailed in an official release from the Ministry of Agriculture.

    Retail representatives confirmed that market supplies of poultry and eggs have now stabilized, attributing this balance to strategic interventions deployed by the current government. They emphasized that availability has normalized across distribution channels, contradicting widespread rumors of scarcity.

    Apolinar Leyba Jr., a prominent voice in the retail sector, issued a stark warning against what he described as disinformation campaigns. He asserted that certain interest groups are deliberately propagating false narratives of product shortages to engineer artificial market distortions and undermine price stability for their own benefit.

    In a show of sector-wide solidarity, Ricardo Rosario, who heads the National Central Union of Unified Retailers, reiterated the industry’s dedication to collaborative engagement with the Ministry of Agriculture. This partnership aims to safeguard the consistent supply and equitable pricing of essential food commodities for consumers. The meeting drew participation from multiple federations representing retailers and merchants, all pledging ongoing cooperation to preserve market equilibrium and prevent speculative practices.

  • GUYSUCO producing sugar at 154% more than selling price- APNU

    GUYSUCO producing sugar at 154% more than selling price- APNU

    Guyana’s state-owned sugar corporation, GUYSUCO, is operating under severe financial strain with production costs dramatically exceeding market sale prices, according to revelations in the National Assembly. APNU’s agriculture spokesman, Vinceroy Jordan, disclosed that the corporation is producing sugar at an average cost of US$1.31 per pound while selling it for just US$0.17 per pound—representing a staggering 154% cost-to-price disparity. This translates to a loss of US$1.14 on every pound of sugar sold internationally. In local currency terms, the figures are equally alarming: GUYSUCO spends GY$275 to produce one pound of sugar but sells it for only GY$35. The 2026 National Budget indicates sugar prices fell by 17.1% to US$0.37 per kilogram in 2025, with a further 0.5% decline expected this year. Despite these financial challenges, the government plans to inject an additional GY$13.4 billion into the sugar sector following last year’s GY$13.3 billion expenditure on mechanization and operational improvements. Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh reported that sugar production reached 59,600 tonnes in 2025—a 26.5% expansion despite being hampered by heavy rainfall, labor shortages, low employee turnout, and factory machinery issues. The sector is projected to grow by 67.9% in 2026 with a target of 100,041 tonnes. GUYSUCO remains a significant employer with over 8,000 workers.

  • NTUCB Calls on SSB to Oppose BTL–Smart Acquisition

    NTUCB Calls on SSB to Oppose BTL–Smart Acquisition

    The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has issued a forceful condemnation of Belize Telemedia Limited’s (BTL) planned acquisition of telecommunications provider Speednet (Smart), characterizing the proposed transaction as rash and poorly conceived while raising alarms about potential risks to worker-contributed funds.

    In a strongly worded statement released Monday, the labor organization expressed profound concern over the Social Security Board’s (SSB) conspicuous silence regarding the matter. The NTUCB emphasized that the SSB bears fundamental responsibility for protecting workers’ financial contributions, stating unequivocally that “workers’ money is not a bargaining chip, nor is it a private investment fund for risky deals.”

    While acknowledging support for investments that might enhance the SSB’s fiscal standing, the union stressed that rigorous due diligence and comprehensive stakeholder consultation must precede any such financial commitments. The organization issued a stark warning that “any entity that carelessly assigns workers’ contributions or threatens the economic stability of this country will be held fully accountable.”

    The NTUCB further criticized BTL for insufficient transparency and accountability throughout the acquisition process. The union has formally demanded that the SSB immediately adopt a public position opposing the acquisition until thorough due diligence procedures are satisfactorily completed.

    To amplify their demands, NTUCB representatives confirmed to News Five that they have initiated procedures to obtain a permit for a demonstration scheduled Wednesday at 11 a.m. outside the SSB headquarters in Belize City.

  • CHTA Opens Registration for 2026 Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua, May 12-15

    CHTA Opens Registration for 2026 Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua, May 12-15

    The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has officially launched registration for its highly anticipated 2026 Caribbean Travel Marketplace, scheduled to take place in Antigua from May 12-15. This premier industry event serves as the region’s most significant tourism trade show, bringing together international buyers, hoteliers, tour operators, and destination representatives for strategic business negotiations and partnership development.

    The selection of Antigua as host destination underscores the island’s growing prominence within the Caribbean tourism landscape. The four-day marketplace will feature structured appointment sessions, destination showcases, and networking events designed to foster meaningful business connections across the global travel industry. CHTA executives emphasize that the event plays a crucial role in shaping Caribbean tourism’s future by creating platforms for product innovation and market expansion.

    Industry professionals can now secure their participation through CHTA’s official registration portal, with early registration incentives available for both members and non-members. The association has implemented a streamlined digital process to facilitate attendance planning well in advance, allowing stakeholders to maximize their engagement opportunities. This extended lead time reflects CHTA’s commitment to delivering an exceptionally organized event that addresses the evolving needs of the post-pandemic travel sector.

    The 2026 Marketplace is expected to build upon the success of previous events while introducing new formats for business matching and knowledge exchange. Antigua’s tourism authorities have pledged full support for the event, highlighting their infrastructure capabilities and commitment to sustainable tourism development. CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig noted that the Marketplace represents ‘an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the diversity and resilience of Caribbean tourism while driving economic growth across our member nations.’

  • PUP Northern Caucus Backs BTL’s Smart Acquisition

    PUP Northern Caucus Backs BTL’s Smart Acquisition

    In a significant development within Belize’s telecommunications sector, the Northern Caucus of the governing People’s United Party has unanimously endorsed Belize Telemedia Limited’s proposed acquisition of Speednet (Smart). The endorsement emerged from a special meeting convened in Orange Walk on Saturday, representing electoral divisions across Corozal, Orange Walk, and Belize Rural South.

    According to caucus representatives, BTL executives presented a comprehensive case for the consolidation, emphasizing how the merger would eliminate redundant operations, enhance efficiency, and facilitate substantial infrastructure investment. The company projects that these operational improvements would translate into superior service quality, expanded network coverage, and accelerated technological advancements for consumers nationwide.

    Financial projections presented to caucus members indicate potential revenue growth from approximately $167 million to $207 million following the acquisition. Notably, dividends per share are forecast to surge by over 200%, potentially benefiting major institutional shareholders including the Social Security Board of Belize. This financial boost could contribute significantly to the long-term viability of the Social Security Fund.

    This political endorsement contrasts sharply with mounting public opposition. Last Tuesday, United Democratic Party supporters and several labor unions staged demonstrations outside BTL headquarters, demanding increased transparency regarding the acquisition terms. The UDP has announced plans for additional protests scheduled for Wednesday.

    Simultaneously, the Belize Communications Workers for Justice conducted separate demonstrations on Friday, highlighting unresolved severance payment issues and announcing intentions to maintain protest activities throughout the week. This opposition underscores the complex stakeholder landscape surrounding the proposed telecommunications consolidation.