Caribbean Airlines (CAL) is gearing up for a transformative two-year turnaround plan, as mandated by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. CAL Chairman Reyna Kowlessar expressed unwavering confidence in meeting this ambitious goal, emphasizing the need for collective effort and strategic leadership. Speaking at the Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s Champions of Business ceremony in Port of Spain on November 13, where CAL was honored as the Internationally Known, TT Owned Business of the Year, Kowlessar outlined the airline’s roadmap for revival. Key initiatives include a comprehensive departmental audit, employee upskilling, and filling vacant positions through ongoing interviews. Kowlessar highlighted the strength of the new board appointed in June and stressed the importance of teamwork and progress. CAL is also optimizing its routes, with an ad-hoc committee addressing underperforming flights, such as the recently discontinued Montego Bay/Kingston to Fort Lauderdale route. Acting CEO Nirmala Ramai, who accepted the award on behalf of CAL, underscored the airline’s commitment to excellence and its role as a regional aviation leader. Kowlessar celebrated CAL’s resilience and its contributions to regional relief efforts, including support for Jamaica, a shareholder in the airline. The ceremony also recognized other business leaders and companies, including AP Scott TT Ltd, La Vega Estate, and Coded Arts, for their outstanding contributions to the business community.
分类： business
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Thirty-five NCCU members honored at 15th anniversary awards
The National Co-operative Credit Union (NCCU) Limited commemorated its 15th anniversary with a grand awards ceremony on November 8, 2025, held at the State House Conference Room. The event brought together key stakeholders, including Her Excellency President Sylvanie Burton, the First Gentleman, and the Honourable Minister for Culture, Youth, Sports & Community Development, Gretta Roberts, to celebrate the organization’s remarkable journey and achievements.
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Vacancy: Housing Authority of Grenada — Accountant
The Housing Authority of Grenada (HAG) is currently seeking a highly skilled Accountant to join its Finance Department. This pivotal role involves maintaining precise financial records, ensuring adherence to accounting standards, and driving the implementation of enhanced systems, documented policies, and efficient workflows. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in modernizing operational practices and supporting decision-making processes across the organization. Key responsibilities include ensuring the accuracy of financial data, preparing financial statements in compliance with GAAP/IFRS, generating financial analyses, and supporting budgeting and forecasting activities. Additionally, the Accountant will oversee inventory accounting, verify procurement transactions, and ensure compliance with the SOE Handbook and statutory reporting requirements. Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance, at least three years of relevant experience, and proficiency in accounting software and Excel. Preferred qualifications include professional certifications (e.g., ACCA, CPA) and experience with cost accounting and government reporting. Applications must be submitted to the Human Resources Department by December 5, 2025.
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July 2025 primary deficit worse than projected
Grenada’s fiscal landscape for 2025 presents a mixed picture, with both challenges and achievements highlighted in the latest report from the Ministry of Finance. The total Central Government debt at the end of 2024 was estimated at EC$2.2 billion, setting a significant backdrop for the year’s financial management. In July 2025, the government recorded an overall deficit of $27.9 million, which exceeded both the target for 2025 and the actual figures from 2024. However, the cumulative deficit from January to July 2025 stood at $55.1 million, a notable improvement compared to the targeted $99.2 million, though it still fell short of the previous year’s performance due to exceptional revenue inflows from the CCRIF payout and backlogged CBI applications. The primary deficit for July 2025 was $25.2 million, worse than projected, but the seven-month period saw a primary deficit of $33.7 million, outperforming the target by $39.1 million. Debt servicing remained steady, with principal payments totaling $8.5 million and interest payments at $2.7 million for July 2025. Over the January to July period, principal payments amounted to EC$67.3 million, with interest payments reaching EC$17.6 million. The report, available for public review on the Ministry’s website, underscores the complexities of Grenada’s fiscal strategy amid fluctuating revenue streams and debt obligations.
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Antigua and Barbuda to Import Cheaper Food from Guyana Following Talks Between PM Browne and President Ali
Antigua and Barbuda has announced plans to import fruits, vegetables, and other food products from Guyana in a strategic move to lower supermarket prices and enhance regional food security. The decision was revealed by Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday. This initiative stems from discussions between Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Guyanese President Irfaan Ali during the COP30 meeting in Belize. The Cabinet has tasked Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr. with collaborating with his Guyanese counterpart to source high-quality agricultural goods for the Antiguan market. Merchant emphasized that nearly 90% of the nation’s food imports currently originate from North America, and this new partnership aims to provide equally high-quality produce at more affordable rates. The initiative is expected to help stabilize food prices once the suspension of the Common External Tariff (CET) on essential items concludes. It also aligns with the government’s broader strategy to address the cost of living and ensure consumers continue to access affordable imports. Officials anticipate that the first shipments from Guyana could reach Antiguan supermarkets by early 2026, pending the finalization of logistics and trade agreements. This collaboration marks a significant step toward achieving CARICOM’s ’25 by 2025′ goal, which aims to reduce regional food import costs by 25% and foster stronger agricultural ties within the Caribbean Community.
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Consumers May Soon See Price Drops From Suspension Of CET on Essential Foods
In a significant move to alleviate the financial burden on households, the government has temporarily suspended the Common External Tariff (CET) on a wide range of essential food items. This decision, part of a CARICOM-wide initiative, aims to mitigate the effects of rising global food prices and provide immediate relief to consumers. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, announced during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday that the suspension is expected to lead to noticeable price reductions within weeks. However, he cautioned that the timeline could vary depending on how quickly supermarkets deplete their existing stock, typically taking one to two months for the changes to reflect on store shelves. The Prices and Consumer Affairs Division has been tasked with monitoring compliance and reporting back to Cabinet within 30 days to ensure that the price reductions are effectively passed on to shoppers. The list of items benefiting from the tariff suspension includes fresh vegetables, fruits, potatoes, carrots, peas, legumes, canned proteins like sardines and corned beef, infant foods, cereals, and cooking oils. Merchant emphasized that the measure will be fully implemented by January 1, pending the finalization of necessary documentation. Additionally, the government is considering expanding the list of zero-rated items and introducing complementary legislation early next year to restrict sugary drinks as part of a broader healthy-living campaign. The Gaston Browne administration remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the benefits of these policy interventions are directly felt by the people of Antigua and Barbuda, through lower prices and enhanced food security.
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Staatsolie keurt commercieel veld voor gasontdekking Sloanea-1 in Blok 52 goed
In a significant step forward for Suriname’s energy sector, Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. has officially approved the commercial development of the Sloanea-1 gas discovery in Block 52, located offshore Suriname. This decision, made on November 11, 2025, underscores the successful collaboration between Staatsolie and PETRONAS Suriname Exploration & Production B.V. (PETRONAS Suriname). The Sloanea-1 field, discovered in late 2020, has been evaluated for its commercial viability, leading to the signing of a gas addendum to the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) established in 2013. PETRONAS Suriname, the operator of Block 52 with an 80% stake, alongside Paradise Oil Company (POC), a subsidiary of Staatsolie holding the remaining 20%, has conducted extensive assessments, including the drilling of the Sloanea-2 appraisal well in 2024. These efforts have provided a more accurate estimate of the field’s gas reserves and recoverable volumes. The approved development plan includes gas production wells, subsea infrastructure, and a Floating LNG (FLNG) facility, a first for the region. PETRONAS Suriname will now prepare and submit the development plan for Staatsolie’s approval, with the Final Investment Decision (FID) expected in the second half of 2026. Commercial gas production is anticipated to commence by 2030, aligning with Staatsolie’s vision of ‘Energizing a Bright Future for Suriname.’
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Ali warns gold miners of tough action for smuggling
President Irfaan Ali delivered a strong message to gold miners during his address at the opening of GUYEXPO 2025, held at the Sophia Exhibition Centre. He emphasized that the government would take severe action against those involved in gold smuggling, including shutting down their operations. Ali specifically targeted miners who benefit from government incentives but fail to comply with legal production declarations. ‘Those who are not compliant with the declaration, we are going to come after you hard and strong. We will find you, and you will lose your business,’ he stated. The President also commended the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) for supporting recent crackdowns on illegal mining activities in the Sand Hills and Toroparu areas. These operations, led by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and the Guyana Police Force, resulted in the detention of illegal miners and the dismantling of unauthorized shops. The GGDMA highlighted the need to curb activities like illegal mining, human trafficking, and drug sales, which have historically funded Venezuelan gangs, including the notorious Sindicato. Ali revealed that one smuggler alone caused a staggering GY$190 billion loss to Guyana’s economy, stressing the importance of tightening the system to prevent such leakages.
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Antigua and Barbuda Successfully Host the 2025 Travel Agency Owners Forum
In a landmark event for the Caribbean tourism industry, Antigua and Barbuda successfully hosted the 2025 Travel Agency Owners Forum from October 25 to 29, 2025. This prestigious gathering, held at Pineapple Beach Club Antigua and The Verandah All-Inclusive Resorts, marked the first time a travel industry forum of this scale was staged outside the United States. The event brought together 70 prominent U.S.-based leisure travel agency owners, collectively responsible for over $800 million in annual bookings, underscoring the Caribbean’s growing influence as a top destination for high-value travel experiences. Over four days, attendees participated in a dynamic agenda featuring B2B meetings, educational panels, networking events, and immersive destination experiences. These activities highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s rich culture, exceptional hospitality, and world-class tourism infrastructure. Key experiences included resort showcases, cultural excursions, and site visits at premier properties such as The Verandah Resort and Spa, Pineapple Beach Club Antigua, Hammock Cove Antigua, Royalton Resort and Spa, and Sandals Grande Antigua. The Forum also featured a lineup of industry thought leaders, including Shayla Northcutt of Northcutt Travel Agency, Jeff Ment of Ment Law Group, and Christopher Lingren of Wonderful Adventure Travel Group, who shared insights on topics ranging from business efficiency to legal considerations and the human side of travel. Dean Fenton, U.S. Director for the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, expressed pride in hosting the event, stating, ‘This Forum not only showcased our islands’ incredible hospitality but also positioned Antigua and Barbuda as a leading destination for global trade engagement and high-value travel experiences.’ The event’s success underscores the Caribbean’s rising prominence in the global travel industry and its ability to attract influential decision-makers shaping travel trends worldwide.
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Foodhub vacancy: Technical Support Representative
Foodhub Grenada, a prominent player in the online food ordering and delivery sector, is currently hiring a Technical Support Representative to join its dynamic team. This full-time position is pivotal in maintaining the seamless operation of Foodhub’s extensive network of takeaways and restaurants by providing expert technical assistance. The role centers on supporting client equipment and systems, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal efficiency for Foodhub’s partners. Responsibilities include diagnosing and resolving hardware, software, and connectivity issues, guiding clients through installations and updates, and escalating complex problems to senior engineers. Candidates should possess 1–2 years of technical support experience, a strong grasp of networking, and proficiency in troubleshooting EPOS devices, printers, and Android-based tablets. Preferred qualifications include IT certifications and experience in hospitality or retail technology support. Foodhub offers comprehensive training, exposure to advanced technologies, and opportunities for professional growth. Interested applicants can submit their applications via email to [email protected].