Tokyo, Japan — A high-profile delegation from the Jamaica Coffee Exporters Association (JCEA) has arrived in Tokyo to participate in a pivotal joint meeting with the All Japan Importers of Jamaican Coffee. The event, held at the prestigious Big Sight Convention Centre, also includes representatives from the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA). Dr. Norman Grant, Chairman of the JCEA, highlighted the association’s ambitious plans to evolve into the Jamaica Coffee Manufacturer and Exporters Association (JCMEA), reflecting its expanded role in manufacturing. Additionally, JCEA members have achieved international certifications such as HACCP, SQF, USFDA, and Rainforest, underscoring their commitment to quality and safety. Grant emphasized the positive trend of increased engagement among coffee farmers, driven by rising cherry coffee prices over the past three years. He also noted significant improvements in quality at both farm and processing levels, with higher pass rates in JACRA’s quality tests. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, including reduced margins for processors due to the disparity between rising cherry prices and stagnant export prices. On a brighter note, global demand for Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee is surging, prompting the JCEA to set ambitious goals: doubling production from 220,000 to 450,000 boxes by 2030, enhancing farm yields, and improving quality. The association is also focusing on sustainability, maintaining ISO 9001:2015 certification, adopting new technologies, reducing the industry’s carbon footprint, and collaborating with scientific research bodies to refine the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee strain.
分类： business
-
Central Bank of Bahamas says economy grew at moderate pace in August
The Central Bank of the Bahamas (CBB) has reported that the domestic economy experienced moderated growth through August 2025, aligning closer to its medium-term potential. While tourism output slowed due to constraints in the high-value stopover segment, the cruise sector remained resilient, buoyed by robust earnings and foreign investments in onshore private destinations. However, the unemployment rate rose in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a decrease in employed individuals and an increase in labor force participation. Monetary trends for August were marked by a contraction in banking sector liquidity, as domestic credit growth outpaced deposits, and external reserves declined due to net foreign currency outflows. Tourism sector earnings also slowed compared to 2024, primarily due to accommodation capacity constraints in the stopover segment. Official data revealed a 3.3% decline in total arrivals for July 2025, with sea passengers decreasing by 3.8% and air traffic by 0.9%. The short-term vacation rental market saw a 1% increase in room nights sold, but occupancy rates declined. The average daily room rate (ADR) for entire place listings rose by 11.8%, while hotel comparable listings saw a 1.1% increase. Labor market conditions worsened in the first quarter of 2025, with the unemployment rate climbing to 10.8% and youth unemployment reaching 20.9%. External reserves decreased to $74.7 million in August, with the central bank’s net foreign currency outflow to the public sector widening. The CBB forecasts slower economic growth in 2025, driven by tourism sector performance, ongoing foreign investments, and global trade uncertainties.
-
NOTICE to The following persons or anyone knowing their whereabouts
Antigua’s premier news website, renowned for its extensive readership, is now offering fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages. Businesses looking to enhance their online presence can leverage the platform’s vast audience reach and innovative advertising solutions. The service is designed to cater to diverse marketing needs, ensuring maximum visibility and engagement for brands. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the team at [email protected] to explore tailored advertising opportunities. This initiative underscores the platform’s commitment to supporting local and international businesses in achieving their marketing goals through cutting-edge digital strategies.
-
LETTER: VC Bird International Airport Saved!
Antigua’s VC Bird International Airport (VCBIA) has been given a new lease on life, thanks to the expertise of Miguel Southwell, a globally respected aviation professional. Southwell, who previously managed Miami Airport and Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport—the world’s busiest—has returned to his homeland to spearhead the transformation of VCBIA. His U.S.-based aviation services company, now internationally acclaimed, has taken on the challenge of overhauling Antigua’s small yet strategically significant airport in the Caribbean region. This move is seen as a labor of love, given the airport’s historical struggles with inefficiencies and the lingering effects of the Allen Stanford financial scandal. The Antiguan government has been praised for its decision to prioritize the modernization of VCBIA, which serves as the nation’s gateway to the world. The project includes a comprehensive assessment of the airport’s infrastructure and administrative systems, aiming to elevate it to the standards of a premier international hub. Additionally, efforts are underway to resolve longstanding issues related to private land ownership within the airport’s footprint, a matter championed by the late National Hero, Sir Lester Bird. This initiative marks a pivotal moment for Antigua’s aviation sector, promising enhanced operational efficiency and a brighter future for the island’s tourism and economic growth.
-
S&P lift positive, but investment grade remains goal, says Bowe
NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Bahamas has received a one-notch credit rating upgrade from Standard & Poor’s (S&P), moving from ‘BB-‘ to ‘BB’ with a stable outlook. While this development is a positive step, Gowon Bowe, Group CEO of Fidelity Bank & Trust International Limited, emphasizes that the ultimate objective is to achieve investment-grade status, not merely incremental improvements. Bowe stated, ‘It is a one-notch upgrade, which is certainly to be recognized as positive and celebrated, but also to be put into context. Our objective is really to move from non-investment grade into investment grade.’ He highlighted that the true value of S&P’s action lies in the narrative of reforms required to sustain and build upon this progress. S&P’s report underscored the importance of fiscal policy, energy reform, and the fragility of the tourism sector. Bowe noted that S&P has placed significant emphasis on the reduction of the fiscal deficit, the successful refinancing of foreign currency debt at moderate interest rates, and the need for energy reforms to stabilize power costs. He also pointed out the vulnerability of the tourism sector to global economic downturns, particularly in the United States, where elevated inflation and interest rate volatility could negatively impact tourism. Additionally, Bowe stressed the importance of implementing the country’s corporate minimum top-up tax, which has been enacted but not yet enforced. He called for the government to focus on realistic fiscal targets and long-term planning, including a national development plan spanning 25 years or more. S&P’s upgrade reflects The Bahamas’ progress in reducing fiscal deficits, stabilizing its debt-to-GDP ratio, and successfully refinancing external debt. However, the agency cautioned that the country’s high reliance on tourism, vulnerability to external shocks, and challenges in the energy sector remain constraints on the rating. The government welcomed the upgrade as a recognition of its fiscal responsibility and reform agenda, reaffirming its commitment to further economic strengthening, growth diversification, and resilience improvement.
-
Repairs to Paruima Airstrip to be completed within two months – Edghill
The Paruima airstrip in Upper Mazaruni, Region Seven, is on track to reopen within the next two months following extensive repairs, as announced by Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill. The airstrip, which underwent a significant upgrade from a grass patch to a durable all-weather concrete strip, was temporarily closed due to surface defects identified shortly after its completion. The contractor, International Import and Supplies, was mandated to address these issues at its own expense. Notably, the contractor has exceeded expectations by not only rectifying the defects but also adding a new layer of stone to enhance durability. This upgrade is anticipated to significantly improve connectivity and development for the Amerindian village of Paruima, which has historically faced challenges due to adverse weather conditions. The opposition Alliance For Change (AFC) had previously raised concerns about the airstrip’s quality after an incident where a plane’s wheel became stuck, requiring manual intervention to move the aircraft. In addition to the Paruima project, the Ministry of Public Works is advancing similar upgrades on other airstrips in Region Seven, including Eteringbang, Karisparu, and Ekereku Bottom, to bolster hinterland transport and accessibility.
-
Showcase of innovation and enterprise at St James expo
Entrepreneurs from across Barbados seized the opportunity to expand their ventures and forge valuable connections at the Emerging Entrepreneurs Manufacturing and Services Trade Fair and Expo, held on Saturday at the Hoytes Village Playing Field in St James. The event, organized by Barbados Trust Loans Ltd. in collaboration with the Office of the Supervisor of Insolvency, showcased the diversity of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) on the island. Beyond its business focus, the family-friendly expo also featured a dedicated kids’ zone, ensuring inclusivity for all attendees.
Ayesha Coppin, Business Development Officer at Barbados Trust Loans Ltd., shared insights into the initiative’s origins with Barbados TODAY. ‘Our Emerging Entrepreneurs programme launched last year, initially closing Broad Street to create a vibrant market for local entrepreneurs. Participants from various sectors showcased their offerings, inspiring us to host pop-up fairs across the island. Our most recent event was held in Weymouth in June,’ she explained. Coppin emphasized the programme’s inclusive nature, stating, ‘These events are not exclusive to our clients; we actively invite the public and other entrepreneurs to participate and display their services.’
The expo featured a diverse array of booths, highlighting retail, manufacturing, agri-processing, and arts and crafts. Notable displays included intricate graphite-based designs by Victoria Haniff and Syriah Griffith, participants in the Community Arts Programme facilitated by the Community Development Department. Adding a competitive edge, a cook-off was staged between parliamentary representatives for St James: Minister of Educational Transformation Chad Blackman and Minister Sandra Husbands, who oversees higher education and technical training.
Entertainment was a key highlight, with a karaoke competition and performances by local artists Tionne Hernandez, Brucelee Almightee, and Mole. Alethea Thompson, Acting Project Manager of the National Insurance and Social Security Service’s self-employment team, underscored the event’s community engagement value. ‘We’ve brought our office to the playing field, and we’re thrilled to have registered individuals for self-employment and issued self-employment cards,’ she said. Thompson added, ‘We addressed numerous queries, as self-employed individuals often need clarity on our services and benefits.’
The expo not only provided a platform for business growth but also strengthened community ties, reflecting Barbados’ commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation.
-
Forex: $161.05 to one US dollar
In a notable shift in currency markets, the Jamaican dollar demonstrated resilience against several major currencies on Monday, September 29. According to the Bank of Jamaica’s daily exchange trading summary, the US dollar concluded trading at J$161.05, marking a decline of 25 cents compared to previous rates. This movement reflects a strengthening of the Jamaican dollar against its US counterpart. Simultaneously, the Canadian dollar experienced a significant drop, closing at J$116.11, down from J$121.14. Similarly, the British pound saw a decrease, ending the day at J$214.99, a reduction from J$216.34. These fluctuations highlight the dynamic nature of foreign exchange markets and underscore the impact of economic factors on currency valuations. The Bank of Jamaica’s data provides crucial insights into the financial landscape, offering stakeholders a clearer picture of current trends and potential future movements.
-
Visual Vibe expands into US, unlocks outdoor advertising on 175 digital trucks
Visual Vibe, a subsidiary of Kintyre Holdings (JA) Limited, has unveiled its strategic entry into the United States market through an innovative collaboration with Dalvey Media. This partnership grants Visual Vibe access to a fleet of 175 digital advertising trucks across the nation, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. The company announced the establishment of Kintyre Holdings Inc in Miami, which will serve as the operational hub for its US endeavors. A general manager will be appointed in Miami to spearhead the nationwide rollout and oversee the company’s growth trajectory. Tyrone Wilson, Founder, President, and CEO of Kintyre Holdings, emphasized the company’s commitment to assembling a world-class team by leveraging platforms like Upwork to attract top-tier talent. This move ensures the company possesses the expertise and agility required for international scaling. Marlon A Hill, a partner at Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, specializing in corporate law, government affairs, and international transactions, serves as the legal counsel for Kintyre Holdings (JA) Limited. Wilson described the partnership as a transformative step for Visual Vibe, which was acquired by Kintyre Holdings in 2023. The company has since undergone significant upgrades, expanding its reach with indoor digital screens in over 40 prime locations in Jamaica and enhancing its outdoor presence. The US expansion will commence with a testing phase in the coming months, followed by a nationwide rollout. This initiative aims to provide brands with innovative ways to engage audiences through a dynamic digital advertising platform that moves with them. Visual Vibe, a pioneer in Jamaica’s digital out-of-home advertising industry for over 15 years, continues to align with Kintyre Holdings’ vision of building a robust global advertising network.
-
Trump announces 100% tariff on movies made abroad
In a bold move, former US President Donald Trump has once again threatened to impose a 100% tariff on films produced outside the United States, accusing other nations of undermining the American film industry. Trump’s latest declaration, made via a Truth Social post on Monday, likened the situation to “stealing candy from a baby” and criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for his handling of the state’s economic challenges. Trump’s proposal, which lacks specific details or a timeline, mirrors a similar threat he issued in May, when he claimed the US film industry was “dying a very fast death” and directed the Department of Commerce and US Trade Representative to explore such tariffs. The potential impact on Hollywood, a cornerstone of the US economy, remains uncertain. The industry, which contributed $279 billion in sales and supported over 2.3 million jobs in 2022, has faced significant setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and recent labor strikes. Trump’s latest remarks come amid a broader push for tariffs on various imports, including branded pharmaceuticals, furniture, and heavy trucks, with some duties set to take effect as early as this week. Notably, his statements did not address whether television series, a growing segment of the entertainment sector, would be affected.