Carib Scope

分类： business

  • Expedia The Dominican Republic can become the tourism hub of the Caribbean

    Expedia The Dominican Republic can become the tourism hub of the Caribbean

    Industry executives from leading global travel organizations have identified the Dominican Republic as the Caribbean’s next pivotal tourism hub, citing its unique combination of scale, infrastructure, and economic maturity. This assessment was delivered at the III BHD Tourism and Investment Forum during Fitur 2026 in Madrid.

    Salim Arkuch, Vice President and General Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean at Expedia Group, articulated that the nation possesses the necessary assets to function as a regional anchor for sustainable tourism development and large-scale capital investment. He emphasized the country’s superior air connectivity, extensive hotel capacity, and well-consolidated tourism economy as critical advantages.

    These foundational strengths position the Dominican Republic as an ideal gateway and dispersion point for the growing trend of multi-destination travel within the Caribbean. This model, often referred to as ‘hotel hopping’ or ‘multi-stay trips,’ is perfectly aligned with the nation’s operational capabilities, allowing tourists to experience multiple destinations within a single itinerary.

    Echoing the strategic importance of the sector, Christopher Imbsen, Vice President of Public Policy at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), addressed the forum. He underscored that tourism constitutes approximately 18% of the Caribbean’s regional GDP, establishing it as a primary economic driver. Consequently, Imbsen stressed that integrating tourism into national development planning is no longer optional but an essential prerequisite for sustainable growth. This holistic approach necessitates that policy decisions on transportation, housing, energy, land use, and human capital development are made in concert with the sector’s strategic needs, rather than in isolation.

  • Olmberg: local content-beleid blijft steken in intenties

    Olmberg: local content-beleid blijft steken in intenties

    Suriname’s emerging oil and gas sector confronts significant challenges regarding local content development, according to Orlando Olmberg, President of the Suriname Energy Chamber (SEC). Despite repeated governmental assurances prioritizing local participation, the nation lacks a concrete short-term action plan, creating uncertainty among businesses and communities alike.

    The institutional framework and policy mechanisms governing local content requirements remain insufficiently developed. While the October 17 state decree formally designated local content as a priority area for the oil and gas industry, this represents merely an initial step toward comprehensive implementation.

    Private sector initiatives have emerged in recent years to better prepare Surinamese companies and workers for opportunities within the energy sector. However, Olmberg emphasizes that structured collaboration between government and industry is essential to establish clear agreements, unified direction, and to overcome current policy fragmentation.

    Time sensitivity presents a critical factor, as oil and gas operations follow strict timelines from development to production. These processes continue regardless of local preparedness levels. Staatsolie, the state-owned oil company, oversees multinational compliance with contractual obligations regarding local workforce, goods, and services utilization. Nevertheless, Surinamese businesses will primarily depend on sector-generated spin-off opportunities.

    During a recent Local Content Conference, the government outlined its policy direction. The current challenge involves translating these intentions into measurable, concrete implementation strategies. Olmberg asserts that the foundation has been laid by various private sector entities, but without clear policy choices, structure, consultation, and joint execution, Suriname risks missing crucial economic opportunities. The time has come to transition from discussion to decisive action.

  • OCOP Saint Lucia: Building Sustainable Livelihoods, One Community at a Time

    OCOP Saint Lucia: Building Sustainable Livelihoods, One Community at a Time

    Saint Lucia is pioneering an innovative economic development model through the One Community One Product (OCOP) initiative, adapted from Japan’s renowned One Village One Product (OVOP) framework. This transformative program demonstrates how local products and their unique heritage can generate market demand while creating sustainable livelihoods for rural communities.

    Implemented through a strategic partnership between the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Climate Change, OCOP employs a community-based value-chain methodology for local product development. The initiative focuses on enhancing skills, adding commercial value to existing agricultural products, and ensuring equitable distribution of economic and social benefits across entire communities—from farmers and processors to households and consumers.

    Following extensive preliminary engagements in Soufrière, Micoud, and Laborie communities throughout the previous year, the project has now entered its focused implementation phase. Babonneau has been selected as the pilot community due to its established tradition of household-level value addition, particularly among women who have historically processed local produce for domestic use.

    The current phase centers on the Saint Lucia Network of Rural Women Producers (Babonneau Cluster), involving approximately fourteen local women—primarily mothers—who are receiving hands-on training in value addition and agro-processing techniques. According to Kendra Payne, local consultant supporting the project implementation, this phase has been deliberately designed to build upon existing community assets: “It’s about working with what already exists in the community and shaping it into something realistic, sustainable, and meaningful for the people involved.”

    The initiative has fostered collaborative partnerships with key organizations including the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), which has provided ongoing institutional support, and the Ministry of Agriculture’s Marketing Unit, which has been instrumental in supporting rollout activities. The women of the Babonneau Cluster have been particularly instrumental, sharing knowledge, mentoring new participants, and leading community engagement efforts.

    As OCOP advances in Babonneau, the accumulated insights and methodologies will inform future expansion into additional communities across Saint Lucia, ensuring that each product not only achieves market success but authentically embodies the OCOP philosophy—where every product tells a meaningful community story.

  • Magazine BuenViaje a Cuba renews its projection in Fitur

    Magazine BuenViaje a Cuba renews its projection in Fitur

    Cuba is making a significant impact at the Fitur 2024 tourism fair in Madrid with a comprehensive showcase of its diverse travel offerings. The Cuban stand, located within the Latin America and Caribbean pavilion, features regional tourism products from the island’s western, central, and eastern territories alongside premium exports including Cuban rum and tobacco.

    The exhibition is highlighted by the presence of sporting legend Mïjain López, the five-time Olympic champion in Greco-Roman wrestling, who serves as a special guest attraction. Adding to the cultural program, renowned musician Issac Delgado and his orchestra are scheduled to perform during the public access days of the fair.

    In parallel with the physical exhibition, Cuban tourism publications are undergoing significant expansion. Mara Roque, editor of the multilingual publication ‘BuenViaje a Cuba’, revealed that their first 2026 issue will extensively cover major hotel chains including Gran Caribe, Isla Azul, and Gaviota, while also addressing broader tourism dimensions such as popular camping, cultural events, beach tourism, and promotional fairs.

    A notable development is the official launch of ‘Eventis’ magazine following a successful pilot year with four editions. This specialized publication focuses exclusively on tourism-related events, covering sustainable event organization, industry trends, service providers, and potential venue spaces across Cuba. According to Roque, both publications serve dual audiences of travelers and industry professionals while facilitating visitor inflow through strategic contact networks.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.