Carib Scope

分类： business

  • Spanish hotel group commits to helping Jamaica recover stronger from Melissa

    Spanish hotel group commits to helping Jamaica recover stronger from Melissa

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s tourism sector has initiated a strategic partnership with Spanish hospitality conglomerate Inverotel to accelerate post-hurricane recovery and enhance global market competitiveness. The landmark discussions occurred during the FITUR international tourism fair in Spain on Wednesday, marking a significant development in cross-continental tourism collaboration.

    Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett characterized the alliance as essential for rebuilding traveler confidence and stimulating demand across key source markets. “This recovery requires all available resources,” Bartlett stated. “We particularly welcome Inverotel’s support in highlighting Jamaica’s diverse offerings spanning resort tourism, cultural experiences, and gastronomic excellence.”

    The negotiations centered on developing integrated promotional strategies, facilitating knowledge exchange, and implementing coordinated marketing initiatives. These efforts are designed to reinforce Jamaica’s status as a premier Caribbean destination amid ongoing recovery challenges.

    Bartlett emphasized the partnership’s significance, noting: “Genuine partnerships reveal themselves during difficult periods. Inverotel has demonstrated unwavering commitment to Jamaica’s tourism sector, for which we extend our heartfelt appreciation.”

    Inverotel, which operates approximately 100,000 hotel rooms across the Americas and Caribbean, reaffirmed its substantial commitment to Jamaica’s tourism resilience. The group emphasized that collaborative marketing between public and private entities remains crucial for achieving sustainable industry recovery.

    Tourism Director Donovan White welcomed the development as strategically timed. “By synchronizing marketing approaches and utilizing international networks,” White explained, “we can accelerate recovery while establishing foundations for prolonged growth. This collaboration becomes particularly vital as we intensify destination marketing efforts.”

    White highlighted Jamaica’s continued importance to Spanish hotel investors, noting billions of dollars in committed investments encompassing new hotel infrastructure, worker welfare programs, housing initiatives, training schemes, and strategies to increase local procurement that will bolster both economic and tourism sustainability.

  • Vusi Thembekwayo sets the tone at Sagicor’s annual ‘Blast Off’ event

    Vusi Thembekwayo sets the tone at Sagicor’s annual ‘Blast Off’ event

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Sagicor Group Jamaica convened its largest corporate assembly since 2018, drawing more than 2,500 employees to the National Indoor Sports Centre on January 14 for its annual “Blast Off” event. The gathering, orchestrated under the unifying banner “One Sagicor: One Team, One Future,” served as a powerful demonstration of the financial conglomerate’s expansive growth and deepening internal cohesion across its diverse business divisions, establishing a resolutely ambitious trajectory for the year 2026.

    Christopher Zacca, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sagicor Group Jamaica, addressed the assembled workforce, emphasizing the critical importance of organizational alignment and shared accountability in driving future success. “Blast Off 2026 fundamentally serves to reinforce that our collective strength is rooted in our unity,” Zacca stated. He elaborated that while the specific challenges of the coming year remain uncertain, the company’s fortified collaborative spirit, disciplined execution, and mutual support would be the definitive factors navigating the organization forward.

    Zacca further outlined Sagicor’s dual-focused mandate for the year, which integrates robust commercial performance with sustained humanitarian efforts directed at communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa in October of the previous year. This commitment, he affirmed, is guided by the company’s core philosophical principles and its enduring dedication to fostering national and regional development throughout Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

    The event featured a keynote presentation by Vusi Thembekwayo, the internationally recognized entrepreneur and business strategist, who galvanized attendees with a call to embrace bold thinking and decisive action. Thembekwayo posited that truly successful enterprises are built by individuals who hold themselves accountable for concrete results, not merely their exertion of effort. He expressed strong confidence in the Sagicor team’s appetite for growth and their inherent capability to emerge as a regional leader.

    Andre Mousseau, President and CEO of parent company Sagicor Financial Company, utilized the platform to underscore the strategic significance of the recently announced merger consolidating the firm’s Caribbean operations. This transformative corporate restructuring, first disclosed on December 16, will amalgamate Sagicor Life Inc. and Sagicor Group Jamaica under a new singular holding architecture named Sagicor Group Caribbean (SGC). Pending necessary regulatory consents, this new entity—envisioned as a diversified financial services powerhouse offering integrated insurance, banking, and wealth management products—is slated for listing on the Jamaica Stock Exchange. Company leadership anticipates the merger will catalyze enhanced collaboration, accelerate professional development, and facilitate greater mobility for talent across the region.

  • Study finds potential for over $1 billion in trade between African Union and CARICOM

    Study finds potential for over $1 billion in trade between African Union and CARICOM

    A groundbreaking economic partnership between Africa and the Caribbean is gaining momentum as new research reveals export opportunities exceeding $1.6 billion. The CARICOM Private Sector Organization (CPSO) presented findings indicating that African Union exports to CARICOM nations could dramatically transform regional supply chains and economic resilience.

    The revelations emerged during the inaugural AfriCaribbean Private Sector Webinar Series launched on January 20, 2026, titled “Unlocking AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment: Opportunities, Ecosystems and Private Sector Leadership.” This virtual gathering, jointly organized by the International Trade Centre, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), CPSO, and Africa Business Council, brought together over 200 private sector leaders, ministers, and development agencies from both regions.

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister, Honourable E.P. Chet Greene, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the urgency of strengthening Africa-CARICOM economic relations amid global trade disruptions. “Political leadership establishes the framework,” Minister Greene stated, “but it is businesses that drive innovation, generate trade volumes, mobilize investment, and create employment. If AfriCaribbean integration is to succeed in practical terms, it must now be carried forward by the private sector.”

    The comprehensive study, “Africa Union-CARICOM Trade in Goods: Scope and Potential,” identifies 579 competitively priced product lines that African nations can supply to Caribbean markets. Remarkably, at least 13 African Union countries can provide over $58 million worth of non-mineral fuel imports to the Caribbean Single Market and Economy at approximately 60% of current benchmark prices.

    Dr. Patrick Antoine, CPSO CEO and Technical Director, presented compelling market data showing that most identified products have sourcing options from at least four African countries, demonstrating remarkable supply diversity. “At moments like these, the role of the private sector becomes even more vital,” Dr. Antoine emphasized. “We must be prepared to respond with agility and seize opportunities wherever they emerge.”

    Despite the promising outlook, participants acknowledged significant challenges including limited transportation connectivity, elevated logistics costs, and fragmented payment systems. Anthony Ali, CEO of Goddard Enterprises Limited and CPSO board member, shared practical insights from direct African market engagement, highlighting opportunities for local production partnerships and reciprocal market presence.

    The webinar series will continue with focused sessions on agriculture, fashion and creative industries, cosmetics and wellness, and health technologies, further exploring sector-specific collaboration opportunities between the two regions.

  • Greene says shifting global trade environment has made stronger Africa Union-CARICOM economic relations an urgent necessity

    Greene says shifting global trade environment has made stronger Africa Union-CARICOM economic relations an urgent necessity

    In a significant address on the evolving global economic landscape, a prominent voice has highlighted the pressing need for strengthened economic cooperation between the African Union (AU) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The call to action is framed as a direct response to fundamental transformations within international trade frameworks and supply chain dynamics.

    The current geopolitical climate, characterized by increasing protectionism and regional realignments, has created both challenges and opportunities for emerging economies. This shifting environment necessitates the formation of strategic economic partnerships that can enhance collective bargaining power and foster sustainable development. The proposition emphasizes that deeper AU-CARICOM collaboration is no longer merely advantageous but has become an imperative for economic resilience.

    Such a partnership would potentially encompass expanded trade agreements, joint investment initiatives in key sectors like agriculture and renewable energy, and enhanced cultural and technological exchanges. This South-South cooperation model aims to reduce historical economic dependencies and create new pathways for shared prosperity. The argument posits that by uniting their considerable market potential and resources, these blocs can better navigate the complexities of contemporary global commerce and secure more favorable positions within it.

  • Public Tender: Supply and installation of electric boat propulsion for 23-foot Patrol Boat

    Public Tender: Supply and installation of electric boat propulsion for 23-foot Patrol Boat

    The German development agency GIZ Caribbean Agency has initiated a significant sustainable maritime transition project through a public procurement process for electric boat propulsion systems. As part of its NDC-TEC initiative, the organization is seeking qualified suppliers to provide and install complete electric marine propulsion technology for a 23-foot patrol vessel in Grenada.

    This comprehensive tender requires the supply and installation of a high-capacity electric outboard motor rated at 75+ kilowatts, accompanied by a marine-grade battery system and integrated vessel control technology. The successful bidder will also be responsible for on-site installation within Grenada and providing comprehensive operations and maintenance training to local personnel.

    The procurement process mandates strict submission protocols, requiring three separate PDF documents containing technical proposals, financial quotations, and corporate information. Prospective suppliers must demonstrate substantial experience in marine products and services, provide detailed equipment specifications, and offer warranty coverage for all components and workmanship.

    Submission deadline is set for February 4, 2026, at 11:59 PM UTC-4 (Grenada time), with all proposals directed exclusively to procurement-tt@giz.de. Queries regarding the tender will be accepted until January 28, 2026, through the same communication channel. The GIZ has explicitly prohibited copying any staff members during submission to maintain procurement integrity.

    This initiative represents a strategic step toward maritime decarbonization in the Caribbean region, aligning with global sustainability objectives while promoting green technology adoption in marine transportation.

  • Saint Lucia enters historic peak week with 47 000+ cruise visitors expected

    Saint Lucia enters historic peak week with 47 000+ cruise visitors expected

    Saint Lucia is currently witnessing an unprecedented surge in cruise tourism, marking one of the most significant maritime arrivals in its history. The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) has confirmed that between January 18 and 25, 2026, a total of 23 cruise vessels are scheduled to dock at the island’s ports, delivering a substantial influx of international visitors and generating remarkable economic stimulation for local enterprises.

    The week’s pinnacle occurred on January 21st, when the island hosted a massive simultaneous docking of five major cruise ships. The fleet was spearheaded by the Iona, boasting a remarkable capacity of 6,509 passengers. It was accompanied by the Enchanted Princess (3,660 capacity), Costa Fascinosa (3,780 capacity), Norwegian Sky (2,004 capacity), and Wind Surf (310 capacity). This convergence created an extraordinary scenario with over 16,000 potential visitors descending upon the island within a single day, resulting in peak demand for local vendors, tour operators, and hospitality services.

    The complete schedule reveals a diverse range of vessels throughout the week, including the MSC Virtuoso (6,334 capacity on Jan 19), Odyssey of the Seas (4,905 capacity on Jan 20), and Norwegian Epic (4,228 capacity on Jan 22), among others. The SLTA has emphasized that this phenomenon extends beyond mere numerical achievement. The strategic objective focuses on encouraging passengers to immerse themselves in local communities, ensuring that tourism-derived economic benefits permeate beyond traditional port areas and directly support grassroots businesses and cultural experiences across the island.

    This maritime tourism explosion represents a crucial development for Saint Lucia’s post-pandemic economic recovery, demonstrating the island’s growing appeal as a premier Caribbean destination while creating substantial opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises throughout the nation.

  • BHTA chair warns next government on legislative reform

    BHTA chair warns next government on legislative reform

    With Barbados’ February 11 general election approaching, tourism industry leader Javon Griffith has presented an urgent reform agenda for the incoming administration, simultaneously warning that geopolitical tensions originating from the United States threaten the island’s most critical tourism market.

    Griffith, Chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), identified two legislative priorities requiring immediate attention. First, he demanded the formal integration of residential tourism companies—specifically car rental firms—under the Tourism Act, arguing their economic significance has surpassed their current regulatory classification under the Ministry of Transport and Works.

    “Bringing car rental firms under the Tourism Act would formally recognize them as integral components of the tourism ecosystem, alongside hotels and restaurants, reflecting their substantial contribution to the industry,” Griffith stated. He emphasized that administrative oversight should transfer to the Ministry of Tourism to align regulatory framework with economic reality.

    Second, the BHTA chairman called for urgent reform of duty-free concessions for hospitality businesses approaching the expiration of their statutory 15-year benefits window. Griffith advocated for either expanding existing concessions or completely redesigning the legislative framework through new parliamentary legislation to ensure continuity for affected establishments.

    These demands emerge against a backdrop of growing industry anxiety over external geopolitical factors. Recent disruptions to Caribbean airspace during US military operations against Venezuelan leadership resulted in significant flight cancellations and delays at Grantley Adams International Airport, stranding passengers and highlighting the vulnerability of Barbados’ tourism sector to international political developments.

    Griffith expressed particular concern about US foreign policy directions, noting that the United States has recently surpassed Britain as Barbados’ primary source market. “The US market is pivotal to our continued growth,” he stressed. “It’s the fastest-growing market currently, and we cannot afford regression after the substantial efforts invested by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.”

    The BHTA maintains weekly coordination with tourism authorities to strategize for upcoming 2025/26 winter and summer seasons, with additional collaboration planned with the National Cultural Foundation to leverage events like the Crop Over Festival as summer tourism drivers. Griffith emphasized that these critical discussions will continue with whatever government emerges from the upcoming election.

  • Cabinet Awaits Final Consultations on BTL–Speednet Deal

    Cabinet Awaits Final Consultations on BTL–Speednet Deal

    BELMOPAN, BELIZE – January 20, 2026 – Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) executives underwent extensive deliberations with the Cabinet today regarding their proposed acquisition of Speednet. The high-stakes presentation lasted over three hours as BTL leadership detailed their consolidation strategy before government officials.

    This meeting represents the latest phase in BTL’s comprehensive stakeholder engagement process, which has included discussions with the Social Security Board, the Communications Workers’ Union, and the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB). Following the lengthy session, Cabinet officials announced they would withhold final judgment until BTL completes its full consultation round with all relevant parties.

    BTL Chairman Markhelm Lizarraga expressed confidence following the presentation, stating the team effectively addressed governmental concerns regarding the telecommunications merger. “I think it went very well,” Lizarraga told reporters. “Cabinet was very engaged. They had numerous questions, and we provided thorough explanations for our proposed consolidation.”

    The chairman emphasized that as a nationally-owned utility, any benefits derived from the merger would ultimately serve the Belizean public. Lizarraga outlined the strategic rationale, noting that eliminating redundant infrastructure and operational inefficiencies would enhance revenue generation capabilities while strengthening Belize’s digital infrastructure.

    When questioned about mounting pressure from social partners demanding his resignation, Lizarraga remained defiant, stating he serves at the pleasure of the Prime Minister rather than responding to external stakeholders. The chairman maintained unwavering confidence that his presentation resonated positively with Cabinet members, citing the engaged nature of the extended discussion.

  • BTL Labels Media as Essential Services

    BTL Labels Media as Essential Services

    In a significant policy shift, Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) has officially reclassified media organizations as essential services. Chairman Markhelm Lizarraga announced the decision on January 20, 2026, directly addressing recent concerns about potential censorship through service disconnections.

    The classification change follows a contentious incident where Channel 7 was mistakenly disconnected due to an automated billing system error. Lizarraga confirmed the company had issued a formal apology letter to the media outlet after reviewing internal records that verified the erroneous disconnection.

    Under the new essential service designation, media houses will now receive personalized courtesy calls from BTL before any potential disconnection for nonpayment occurs. This procedural overhaul represents a departure from the company’s fully automated billing system, which previously disconnected services automatically upon payment delinquency without human intervention.

    Lizarraga emphasized that the policy adjustment aims to safeguard information flow rather than restrict it. “It is not the policy of government and it is not the policy of BTL to unplug anybody,” he stated during the announcement, acknowledging the serious concerns raised by media representatives.

    The essential service category already includes hospitals, police departments, and other critical infrastructure entities that receive special billing considerations. Media organizations will now join these prioritized services, ensuring continuous operation even during billing disputes or administrative delays.

    This development comes one week after three major media outlets held a press conference expressing concerns about potential censorship through utility disconnections, indicating BTL’s responsive approach to these apprehensions.

  • Chebat Responds as GOB Moves to Freeze Telecom Rates Amid Buyout Questions

    Chebat Responds as GOB Moves to Freeze Telecom Rates Amid Buyout Questions

    The Belizean government is taking preemptive measures to protect telecommunications consumers amid ongoing discussions about potential industry consolidation. Public Utilities Minister Michel Chebat has clarified the government’s position regarding a proposed Statutory Instrument that would freeze telecom rates during any transitional period.

    Minister Chebat emphasized that the preparation of this regulatory framework does not indicate a finalized decision on the widely discussed merger of telephone companies. “Cabinet has not made a position,” Chebat stated during recent discussions. “We are waiting for the process to take place. We understand there are some consultations going on and we want to allow that to happen first.”

    The proposed legislation, currently being prepared by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), would establish consumer protections including a prohibition on rate increases, changes to service bundles, and unauthorized subscriber transfers between rate plans during any transition. The instrument must pass through the Attorney General’s office before reaching Cabinet for approval.

    Chebat characterized the measure as prudent regulatory preparation rather than an endorsement of consolidation. “As the regulator, I think PUC has to prepare for every eventuality,” he explained, noting that the proposal is already being publicly discussed. This approach suggests the government is maintaining a neutral position while ensuring consumer interests are protected regardless of industry developments.

    The clarification comes following a presentation to Cabinet by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), which Chebat described as “thorough” but insufficient to form a government position without further consultation processes.